Ollie Bearman has addressed recent speculation linking him with a potential move to Red Bull Racing, stating his desire to remain within the Ferrari fold. The British driver acknowledged the flattering nature of the rumours but emphasized his current focus on his role with Haas.
Reports emerged from Sky Sports F1 commentator David Croft, suggesting that Red Bull is closely monitoring Bearman as a possible candidate to replace Max Verstappen. This comes amidst ongoing speculation regarding Verstappen’s future with the Milton Keynes-based team.
Verstappen’s contract with Red Bull extends until the end of the 2028 season. However, a performance-related exit clause for 2027 has been activated. This clause allows him to depart if he is not within the top two of the drivers’ standings by the summer break of the current 2026 season.
As of early July 2026, following the British Grand Prix, Verstappen is mathematically unable to secure a top-two position in the championship before the summer break. This development formally triggers the exit clause in his agreement.
Bearman, a long-standing member of the Ferrari Driver Academy, is currently in his second full Formula 1 season with Haas, having joined the team in 2025. His contract with Haas is set to conclude at the end of the 2026 season.
Despite his clear ambition to drive for Ferrari, Bearman currently faces an uncertain future regarding a confirmed contract for the 2027 season. His pathway to a full-time seat at the Scuderia is presently occupied.
Charles Leclerc holds a long-term contract with Ferrari, reportedly extending beyond 2030. Lewis Hamilton has also confirmed his commitment to the team for 2027 and potentially beyond, following a resurgence in form this season.
Bearman’s performance during the current 2026 season has been notable, consistently outperforming his teammate Esteban Ocon. Haas team principal Ayao Komatsu has previously indicated that there is ‘no point worrying’ about potentially losing the young driver to Ferrari.
The 21-year-old made an impressive Formula 1 debut for Ferrari at the 2024 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix. Substituting for an unwell Carlos Sainz, Bearman finished seventh, securing points in his maiden race.
‘It’s quite flattering to hear things like that, with a team like Red Bull who are incredibly successful, and to be connected with them in any way, even if it’s just rumours, is very nice,’ Bearman stated. ‘But, as I said, it’s just rumours, and I’m fully focused on what I’m doing here with Haas at the moment.’
Bearman acknowledged Ferrari’s trust in him since his Formula 3 career and his F1 debut. He expressed hope for his future to lie with the Scuderia, but noted he does not have a full say in the matter.
