Bearman’s Qualifying Controversy at Emilia-Romagna GP
Imola, Italy — Oliver Bearman, the Haas F1 driver, has expressed his frustration with the FIA after a promising qualifying lap was controversially deleted due to a late-session red flag during the Emilia-Romagna Grand Prix. Bearman completed a fast lap shortly before a second red flag was called following a crash involving Alpine’s Franco Colapinto.
During the session, Bearman claimed he was not made aware of the red flag until after he crossed the finish line. "We get the red light on our dash, but that didn’t happen until quite a way after I crossed the line," he stated. The FIA ruled that the red flags were displayed before Bearman completed his lap, resulting in his time being invalidated.
As a consequence, Bearman qualified 19th, ahead only of Yuki Tsunoda, who failed to set a time in the session. "It’s totally unfair to have it deleted," Bearman lamented, arguing that erroneous decisions by officials can significantly impact drivers and teams.
Haas team management attempted to contest the decision, causing an unexpected delay before Q2; however, the stewards maintained their stance. Bearman, disappointed by the outcome, remarked, "We work and invest so much… It’s a big shame."
Bearman will start the race from 19th position, alongside teammate Esteban Ocon, who qualified 18th. The Haas team was hoping to showcase a new performance package, and this setback limited their exposure during the critical qualifying session.
