Haas F1 Duo Take on Silverstone Tyre Test: Bearman and Fittipaldi Gear Up for a Crucial Shakedown
The iconic Silverstone circuit will be the stage for an intriguing two-day Formula 1 tyre test, with Haas F1 Team's reserve driver Pietro Fittipaldi and rising star Oliver Bearman taking the spotlight. Following the British Grand Prix, the spotlight will turn to a vital tyre test, which promises to be a significant milestone in Haas’ development journey.
Fittipaldi, who has been with Haas as their reserve driver since 2021, will pilot the VF-24 for the inaugural run on Tuesday, marking his first experience with the car. However, his stint behind the wheel will be brief as he hands it over to Bearman, the team’s new full-time driver starting next season.
For Bearman, this tyre test is another crucial step in his preparation for the 2024 season. After impressing during his third FP1 session this past weekend, he expressed his enthusiasm for the extended track time. “I will take any opportunity to get behind the VF-24, so after two free practices in close succession with the team, it’s a rare and fantastic opportunity to get a full day of running,” said Bearman. “I’m in a good rhythm with the team and next week – hopefully aided by good weather conditions – will let me expand my knowledge of driving a Formula 1 car ahead of my first season as a full-time driver.”
Fittipaldi was equally thrilled about the opportunity, emphasizing the significance of understanding different tyre compounds. “I’m super excited to be testing for MoneyGram Haas F1 Team in the Pirelli Tire Test, as it’s important to understand different compounds,” stated Fittipaldi. “It’s always a privilege to drive a Formula 1 car, and even more so to assist MoneyGram Haas F1 Team in its development. As we’ve seen, they’ve been doing a really great job currently with development, and I want to use this track time to help extrapolate as much data as I can for the team.”
Beyond driving, this test is pivotal for Haas in multiple aspects. Not only will it allow the team to gather essential data on their latest upgrade package at Silverstone, but it will also enable critical trials with the race support crew taking on more senior roles. Performance Engineers Ronan O’Hare and Laura Mueller will step into the roles of race engineers for the duration of the test, providing invaluable experience and insights.
This meticulous approach underscores Haas’ commitment to enhancing their performance and operational efficiency heading into the future. As they work tirelessly to leverage every ounce of data from these tyre tests, both Bearman and Fittipaldi are set to play instrumental roles. The synergy of an experienced hand and fresh talent could offer the team a rich blend of insights and performance metrics, crucial for their competitive edge in the upcoming seasons.
The Silverstone tyre test will be more than just a drive; it will be a litmus test for Haas' development strategies and technical proficiency. Given the stakes involved, both drivers are expected to push the VF-24 to its limits, providing indispensable feedback that will shape the team's trajectory in the highly competitive world of Formula 1.
With an eye on future successes, Haas continues to forge ahead, leveraging every opportunity to refine and enhance their capabilities. As Bearman and Fittipaldi strap in for this pivotal test, all eyes will be on how effectively they can drive the team forward, solidifying Haas' standing as a formidable competitor on the F1 grid.