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David Croft believes Oliver Bearman has all the potential he needs to be a future world champion, but must overcome his nerves during races.
Oliver Bearman’s first season in F1 was a strong one, given the limitations he had to deal with. The Haas rookie made quite an impression in the latter half of the season.
A P4 finish in Mexico was the highlight of what was a learning year for Bearman. It’s safe to say that the young Brit didn’t come close to matching the highs of his 2023 cameo for Ferrari.
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The hope with Bearman is that he can develop into a strong driver in the years to come, as he climbs up the ranks of F1.
But to reach the top of the mountain in this sport, David Croft believes Bearman must make one crucial change to his approach to racing.
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David Croft wants Oliver Bearman to stop being nervous while overtaking drivers
During an appearance on Radio 1, Oliver Bearman and host Greg James played a game that involved calling various celebrities from their phone.
James managed to get a hold of David Croft at Silverstone, and when he asked what he thinks of Bearman’s potential, the legendary F1 announcer praised his potential, but highlighted a weakness.
“The thing is, he is good enough to be a world champion. He is just a bit nervous when it comes to overtaking. He is only young… He has all the talent he needs to become a world champion.”
Croft clearly holds Bearman in high regard, even if the youngster has yet to make any serious moves in F1 so far.
However, in highlighting a weakness in his driving, Croft has provided Bearman with some constructive feedback that he could work in the years to come.
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Oliver Bearman looking to improve in second season with Haas
After showing signs of the potential that impressed David Croft, Oliver Bearman will have his eyes on taking things further this season.
With the new changes coming to F1, there is a lot of uncertainty about who will succeed or fail under the new regulations.
For his part, Bearman is confident about the regulations and in his ability to adapt to the situation in front of him.
But until he starts delivering more results on a consistent basis, he will remain a prospect with high potential and nothing more.
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