Haas F1 Team Shines in Mexico City Grand Prix

The Mexico City Grand Prix was a whirlwind event filled with intense battles, unexpected near-misses, and some controversial retirements. Amid the headline-making clash between Lewis Hamilton and Max Verstappen, as well as the suspenseful final laps with Charles Leclerc, it was Oliver Bearman and the Haas F1 Team that quietly made a significant impact, finishing fourth in a race where none of the competitors ahead of them faced retirement.

A Promising Debut

Oliver Bearman, a young talent in the world of Formula 1, made his first appearance for Haas during the FP1 session in Mexico City two years ago. His performance was impressive enough to catch the attention of the then-Haas trackside engineering director, Ayao Komatsu. Within a short span of three months, Komatsu transitioned to the role of team principal, and soon after, Bearman found himself as one of the race drivers.

Komatsu recalls how Bearman’s initial performance stood out, particularly for his swift adaptation to the track. This was reminiscent of a previous outing in Brazil, where Bearman was called up on short notice to replace Kevin Magnussen due to illness. His debut lap at Interlagos had already showcased his potential, and he continued this trend by making a strong impression in Mexico City.

Impressive Team Dynamics

After the race, Komatsu expressed his admiration for Bearman’s performance, particularly highlighting his ability to navigate the tricky first turns of the circuit. “He managed to get through that mess in Turn 1, Turn 2, and Turn 3, which can often cause issues for drivers,” Komatsu noted. Not only did Bearman handle pressure from Verstappen effectively, but he also created a gap, showcasing his skill behind the wheel.

The race was a testament to the cohesive effort of the entire Haas team, from the drivers to the engineers and mechanics. The team executed a remarkable 2.2-second pit stop, the fastest they had managed that season, which contributed significantly to their overall performance. “It’s just a whole team effort,” Komatsu remarked, emphasizing the collective hard work that led to their success.

Bearman’s Journey and Growth

Bearman first gained recognition during his debut for Ferrari in Saudi Arabia, but the 2025 season has presented its challenges as he navigated a full year in a less competitive car. Despite these challenges, Bearman seized the opportunity in Mexico City, demonstrating his growth as a driver.

“I had a good start, slotted myself between the two Mercs, and actually had good pace,” Bearman recounted. He was able to stay within DRS range, which allowed him to maintain a competitive edge. A notable moment in the race was when Hamilton and Verstappen had a brief clash, which Bearman capitalized on, showcasing his ability to remain calm and composed under pressure.

Driving alongside seasoned professionals like Verstappen and Hamilton was a surreal experience for Bearman, who admitted, “Honestly, I was terrified going side-by-side with Max.” Despite the pressure, he relished the opportunity to compete with drivers he had admired since childhood.

Strategy and Performance

Bearman had aspirations of securing Haas’ first-ever podium during the race when he found himself in P3 during the first stint. However, the team opted for a two-stop strategy, which ultimately allowed him to fend off most competitors, with only Verstappen managing to surpass him using a one-stop strategy. By securing a fourth-place finish, Bearman matched Haas’ best-ever result in Formula 1, a record that Romain Grosjean, who previously held that position, had set seven years ago in Austria.

Grosjean, who was present at the race in Mexico, expressed his hope that Bearman would surpass his record, underscoring the camaraderie and support within the team. The atmosphere in the Haas garage after the race was jubilant, with numerous competitors coming over to congratulate Komatsu on the impressive result.

Validation of Team Decisions

Bearman’s fourth-place finish, coupled with Esteban Ocon’s ninth, propelled Haas to eighth place in the constructors’ championship, narrowing the gap to sixth-placed Racing Bulls. This outcome served as validation for the team’s decision to implement late upgrades to their car, enhancing their performance at a crucial point in the season.

Reflecting on the emotional high of the race, Komatsu stated, “If you don’t get emotional about a day like this, when are you going to get emotional?” He acknowledged the hard work and dedication of the entire team, especially during challenging moments earlier in the season. The emotional weight of their struggles, including disappointing races, made this achievement all the more significant.

A Celebration of Team Effort

The Mexico City Grand Prix not only highlighted Bearman’s potential as a future star but also reinforced the importance of teamwork in Formula 1. The synergy between drivers, engineers, and mechanics was palpable, culminating in a performance that exceeded expectations. “It was a great drive for Esteban [Ocon] as well, on the one-stop strategy, which brought in more points for the team,” Komatsu remarked, celebrating the collaborative effort that led to their success.

In the competitive world of Formula 1, victories are often accompanied by both triumphs and tribulations. Komatsu emphasized the bittersweet nature of the sport, acknowledging that while some teams may claim podiums, the respect and admiration for their rivals remain unwavering. The essence of competition is not just in winning, but in recognizing the efforts of others, as demonstrated by the mutual respect among drivers and teams.

Looking Forward

With the exhilarating performances at the Mexico City Grand Prix, the Haas F1 Team is poised to build on this momentum as they head into the remaining races of the season. The combination of Bearman’s evolving skills and the team’s strategic decisions positions them favorably for future competitions.

As the season progresses, the focus will be on maintaining the high level of performance that was evident in Mexico City. The collaboration between drivers and the technical team will be crucial as they strive to improve their standings in the constructors’ championship. The excitement surrounding the Haas F1 Team continues to grow, with fans eagerly anticipating what’s next for Bearman and his teammates.

In conclusion, the Mexico City Grand Prix was a defining moment for the Haas F1 Team, showcasing their potential and resilience. The impressive performances from Bearman and Ocon, coupled with the team’s strategic execution, marked a significant achievement in their journey within Formula 1. As they look ahead, the foundation laid in this race will serve as a launching pad for future success, further establishing Haas as a competitive force in the world of motorsport.