Oliver Bearman criticizes Haas F1 tire strategy in Sepang

Formula 1 driver Oliver Bearman has expressed frustration with the Haas F1 Team following a strategic disagreement during the Grand Prix in Sepang. Despite heavy rain and a wet track, the team opted to start Bearman on slick tires, a decision Bearman claims he vehemently opposed.

Bearman stated he had been “categorical” about the need to start on intermediate tires, but the team made a last-minute decision to use slicks without his knowledge. He believes the team attempted to split strategies between the two cars, as his teammate was permitted to start on intermediates.

Bearman noted that because he was running ahead of his teammate at the start, he felt he was unfairly assigned the high-risk strategy. The decision proved unsuccessful, as he struggled for grip and fell significantly behind the field, eventually finishing the race in 14th place.