Sao Paulo, Brazil — Haas reserve driver Ollie Bearman will step in for Kevin Magnussen on the opening day of the Sao Paulo Grand Prix after Magnussen reported feeling unwell. Bearman, who is set to join Haas as a full-time driver in 2025, will be handling Friday’s Sprint Qualifying session and the only practice session of the day under the unique Sprint format this weekend.
The Sprint format leaves teams with limited practice time, so Friday’s sessions are critical to setting up the car before racing action intensifies. Although Magnussen’s condition will be reassessed later in the weekend, Haas made the proactive decision to call on Bearman to ensure the team maximizes this valuable track time.
Bearman is no stranger to stepping up when needed. Earlier this season, he replaced Magnussen at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix when the Dane served a one-race ban after accumulating 12 penalty points within a 12-month period. Additionally, Bearman showcased his adaptability with Ferrari this year, substituting for an ill Carlos Sainz in Saudi Arabia and participating in Free Practice 1 at the recent Mexico City Grand Prix, where he encountered a dramatic collision with Alex Albon’s Williams.
Bearman’s early call-up underscores the team’s faith in his readiness and performance ahead of his full-time role next season. Starting in 2025, Bearman will partner with Esteban Ocon at Haas, following Nico Hulkenberg’s planned move to Sauber and what looks to be the likely end of Magnussen’s F1 tenure.
Elsewhere in the F1 paddock, two-time world champion Fernando Alonso missed his media obligations for the second week in a row due to treatment for an intestinal infection. His condition, monitored by medical professionals in Europe, has led to adjustments in his schedule as he aims to recover in time for competitive sessions.
Fans can follow Bearman’s progress as he takes on his latest challenge with Haas, with Sprint Qualifying and race action airing live on Formula 1 broadcast partners worldwide.
