Motor racing-Steiner says he should have left Haas earlier, would sign Bearman

LONDON (Reuters) – Former Haas team principal Guenther Steiner admitted on Friday that he stayed too long with the U.S.-owned Formula One team and expressed his belief that British teenager Oliver Bearman would have secured a race seat for the 2025 season under his leadership.

It is highly anticipated that the 18-year-old, who impressively finished seventh in his F1 debut as a substitute for Carlos Sainz at the recent Saudi Arabian Grand Prix, will join the Ferrari-powered Haas team. Bearman had also participated in practice sessions with Haas during the previous year.

“Based on his exceptional performance in Jeddah and what I observed from him at Haas, I would have definitely given him a race seat,” Steiner revealed in his inaugural column for the official Formula One website.

“Of course, his opportunity will be subject to circumstances and seat availability. One needs to consider the entire scenario, but he would certainly be a contender,” the Italian added, following his departure from Haas at the end of last year.

Both of Haas’s current drivers, Kevin Magnussen and Nico Hulkenberg, are set to reach the end of their contracts by the conclusion of this season.

Speaking about Bearman’s race in Jeddah, Steiner stated, “His performance in that race has surely alleviated any doubts that prospective employers may have had regarding his abilities.”

“He is currently in a favorable position as many drivers’ contracts are due to expire by the year-end, enabling him to place himself well. While he may not have the freedom to choose any team, I believe there will be more than one opportunity for him,” Steiner remarked.

“After his remarkable performance last weekend, I expect many teams to actively consider him. Therefore, I believe he stands a good chance of securing a seat next season.”

Reflecting on his departure, Steiner noted that he has been able to disconnect from Formula One for the first time in ten years.

“This period has been beneficial for me. As time passes, I realize that I lingered at Haas for too long,” he admitted.

“Although I would consider returning to F1 in the future, it must be the right project under the right circumstances,” Steiner concluded.

(Reporting by Alan Baldwin; Editing by Christian Radnedge)