The Ferrari team’s driver was unable to participate in the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix due to a health issue. As a result, Oliver Bearman, who serves as Ferrari’s reserve driver, made his Formula 1 race debut in place of Carlos Sainz.
Recently, Carlos Sainz underwent an appendicitis surgery, describing it as a successful operation. He expressed his gratitude to those who provided support during his recovery period.
Due to his health problem, the Ferrari driver could not compete in the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix. Consequently, Oliver Bearman, who serves as Ferrari’s reserve driver, took his place in the Formula 1 race.
Bearman, a young British driver, had an impressive start filling in for Sainz quickly. He qualified in pole position for the feature race of Formula 2 in Jeddah.
Despite minimal preparation, Bearman showcased his talent advancing to the second qualifying session in Formula 1. He narrowly missed out on reaching the third qualifying session by just 0.036 seconds, despite having only one hour of practice in an unfamiliar car.
Alongside Charles Leclerc, Sainz’s teammate, and Fred Vasseur, Ferrari team principal, the young driver wished Sainz a speedy recovery.
Vasseur confirmed the success of Sainz’s appendicitis surgery, which forced him to sit out the race weekend.
Sainz expressed his gratitude on social media for the swift assistance he received, especially from the King Fahad Armed Forces Hospital, and for the support of his fans.
Christian Horner’s Red Bull team is still facing potential consequences as the FIA steps in on the matter.
Sainz also congratulated Bearman on his impressive qualifying performance on behalf of Ferrari.
It is expected that Leclerc will start the Grand Prix in second position, behind Max Verstappen, who secured the first place in the final segment of qualifying.
The event highlighted the supportive nature of the Formula 1 community and the remarkable adaptability and skill of emerging talents like Bearman, who stood out in challenging circumstances.