The meteoric rise of Franco Colapinto and Oliver Bearman in Formula 1 is showcasing the strength of F1’s academy programs, according to Bruno Michel, CEO of Formula 2 and Formula 3. As these young talents continue to make waves in the premier motorsport, their success underscores the effectiveness of the development pathways that teams have put in place.
After years of a stagnant F1 grid, the driver market was blown wide open in 2024 with major moves, such as Lewis Hamilton’s upcoming transfer to Ferrari for 2025. This shake-up allowed new talent to rise, with Colapinto and Bearman leading the charge as standout rookies.
Bearman’s dazzling debut performance in Saudi Arabia, filling in for Carlos Sainz at Ferrari, earned him a 2025 contract with Haas. Meanwhile, Colapinto’s impressive stint replacing Logan Sargeant at Williams has sparked discussions of a potential two-year loan to Sauber/Audi. The young drivers’ rapid adjustment to F1 has been nothing short of remarkable, with both scoring points early in their careers.
But what’s driving this new generation’s success? It’s all about the F1 academies. Colapinto, Bearman, and other rookies like Liam Lawson and Andrea Kimi Antonelli, have all come through these team-driven programs, which provide them with more than just financial support. Academy drivers gain invaluable experience working with F1 teams, from simulators and physical training to media skills and learning the complexities of F1 operations.
Michel explained that the academies have become crucial for young drivers’ development. “In F2, half the grid is coming from F1 teams’ academies, and in Formula 3, about a third,” he said. “These academies provide drivers with financial support, but more importantly, they prepare them to be ready for F1.”
Bearman and Colapinto’s rapid acclimatization to F1 has proven that these academies work. Their recent performances in Baku, with Bearman securing a top-10 finish and Colapinto scoring his first points, are testament to their readiness.
Michel emphasized that it’s not just driving skills that set these young talents apart. “The academies give drivers an advantage in managing the complex environment of F1,” he said. From handling the pressures of race weekends to understanding team dynamics and technical systems, these rookies are more prepared than ever.
Looking ahead, the future of F1 appears bright with fresh blood entering the sport. As Colapinto, Bearman, Lawson, and Antonelli step into the limelight, it’s clear that F1 academies are playing a pivotal role in shaping the next generation of racing stars. And the sport is all the better for it.
Photo from (X) Ferrari account
