Ferrari Veteran Jock Clear Believes Oliver Bearman Will Thrive Under 2026 Rules

Former Ferrari senior engineer Jock Clear has thrown his significant support behind Oliver Bearman, declaring the young Haas driver is perfectly positioned to excel when Formula 1 introduces its new regulations in 2026. Clear, a highly respected figure in the paddock, believes the upcoming rule change will specifically highlight Bearman's strengths, drawing a subtle but powerful comparison to Charles Leclerc's title-winning potential.

Why it matters:

Clear's endorsement carries significant weight, adding credibility to the growing narrative that the 2026 technical overhaul could reset the competitive order and favor a new generation of drivers. For a team like Haas, which operates in a close partnership with Ferrari, having a driver who can extract maximum performance from a new car concept is crucial for their ambitions to climb up the grid and challenge the midfield leaders.

The details:

• Direct endorsement: "I think that with the new regulations, the good drivers will continue to be good. But Ollie Bearman, I think, will do well next year," Clear stated, offering a clear vote of confidence.
• Highlighting strengths: Clear emphasized that the new rules will "work in Bearman’s favour by highlighting his strengths," suggesting the 20-year-old's raw talent and adaptability are a perfect match for the challenges of the next generation of F1 cars.
• A wider trend: This view aligns with Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff, who has also suggested the 2026 cars will naturally benefit younger, adaptable drivers, citing Max Verstappen and George Russell as examples of those who could thrive.
• Title potential comparison: In a telling remark, Clear placed Bearman in an elite category, stating he believes the young Brit, like Charles Leclerc, has the inherent ability to one day win the world championship.

What's next:

The 2025 season will serve as a critical proving ground for Bearman as he settles into a full-time race seat with Haas. His performance and development over the next year will be a key indicator of whether he can capitalize on the opportunity presented by the 2026 regulations and fulfill the high praise from respected figures like Jock Clear.