Speculation is mounting regarding Oliver Bearman’s potential move to Red Bull Racing, contingent on Max Verstappen’s future with the team. Bearman is currently a full-time Haas driver, contracted until at least the end of the 2026 Formula 1 season. He is also a member of the Ferrari Driver Academy, having joined in 2022.
Bearman’s contract with Haas concludes at the end of 2026, leaving his F1 future for the 2027 season unconfirmed. His strong performances this season have seen him consistently outperform teammate Esteban Ocon.
A direct path to a Ferrari seat for Bearman is currently blocked. Charles Leclerc holds a long-term contract, and Lewis Hamilton has an extended deal, showing strong form in the 2026 campaign.
Reports indicate that Red Bull is closely monitoring Bearman’s progress. Sky Sports F1 commentator David Croft stated that Red Bull is ‘keeping very close tabs’ on the Haas driver.
Red Bull Team Principal Laurent Mekies, who previously played a role in Bearman’s entry into the Ferrari Driver Academy, is reportedly advocating for the young Briton. This interest comes amidst ongoing uncertainty surrounding Max Verstappen’s long-term commitment to Red Bull.
Verstappen is under contract with Red Bull until the end of 2028. However, his agreement includes performance-based exit clauses that could allow him to depart earlier.
For the 2026 season, the exit clause can be triggered if Verstappen finishes below second place in the Drivers’ Championship by the summer break. As of July 16, 2026, Verstappen was seventh in the championship standings.
This championship position makes it a foregone conclusion that the clause can be activated if Verstappen chooses to leave. He has declined to commit to Red Bull beyond 2026, fueling transfer speculation.
Verstappen’s manager, Raymond Vermeulen, has stated that the driver intends to fulfill his contract until 2028. Vermeulen also noted that the existence of the exit clause does not automatically mean it will be activated.
Ralf Schumacher has suggested that Oliver Bearman would be Red Bull’s primary choice if Verstappen were to leave the team. McLaren is currently considered the most likely destination for Verstappen should he depart.
Bearman has acknowledged the Red Bull rumours, describing them as ‘flattering’. He maintains his focus remains on his current role with Haas.
The potential departure of Verstappen could significantly impact Red Bull’s wider driver development program. This includes the futures of junior drivers such as Nikola Tsolov and Arvid Lindblad, who are linked to Racing Bulls for 2027.
Bearman currently lacks a confirmed contract for the 2027 season and is awaiting clarity on his future from Ferrari.
