Bearman feeling home race love after promising P5 in Silverstone Qualifying

5 July 2024

On what has been a momentous week in his career, Oliver Bearman is continuing to aim high and was feeling positive after ending Qualifying fifth for PREMA Racing.

Fresh from his Haas F1 2025 confirmation and latest FP1 session, the Briton was back on track in F2 competition and tackling the Silverstone circuit lined with fans eager to see him perform.

A top five start was a well-deserved reward as the PREMA driver continues to build momentum in what has been a tricky campaign to this point.

“We’ve had a few difficult Qualifying sessions this year so it’s good to be up there in the top five again,” Bearman explained afterwards. “I wanted a bit more but considering everything, I’m happy with today.

“It’s been a tough day honestly, but I’m happy with how I finished. I had a few good laps and a few less good laps. First push was provisional pole but then it seems like every time we go for a second run on the same set of tyres, we struggle a bit more compared to the others, which is a bit annoying.

“My final lap was going well but unfortunately, I didn’t finish it so well. A Qualifying session of ups and downs but pretty happy with it in the end.

PREMA have not met their own high standards so far in 2024 though there are signs that the Italian outfit is beginning to turn a corner.

Bearman was happy to have achieved a top five result but will be aiming higher in the races

Their stronger results have come in fits and bursts but with both cars inside the top 10 for both Silverstone races, things are looking up for Bearman and teammate Andrea Kimi Antonelli.

The Italian driver will have the chance to go for a maiden F2 victory tomorrow in the Sprint Race, and Bearman hopes the team can find a few things to carry forward into the Feature on Sunday also.

Whatever happens, he will have a passionate Silverstone crowd behind him every step of the way, something the home hero is relishing this weekend.

“We’re both in the top 10, Kimi is starting on Pole tomorrow so I hope he can win. I have a good feeling with the improvements we’re making so tomorrow will be a real test in the race.

“I’m looking forward to it. Can’t have any expectations because I’m not really sure how we’ll perform in consecutive laps, but time will tell, and I have high hopes.

“It’s been a very special weekend so far. Performing in front of the home fans is great and I’m really enjoying it. I hope to finish things off well and bring home some good results for them.”