Bearman is not asking for six million, says Komatsu. But he may be seeking guarantees from Ferrari…

Ollie Bearman and Liam Lawson are among the best drivers in the midfield. Paradoxical as it may sound, neither has yet settled where he will race in 2027. While Lawson’s situation appears increasingly complicated, Bearman will certainly remain at Haas. As we await an official statement from Haas and Ferrari, the media are speculating about the hold-up.

The American team is attracting more attention than it is used to at the moment. In Mexico, a major row between Esteban Ocon and the team’s management led to the Frenchman’s dismissal midway through the race weekend. He was replaced by the team’s reserve driver Ryo Hirakawa, who marked his F1 debut with a single point.

At present, we do not know who will race alongside Bearman in Brazil, nor why the British driver has still not been confirmed at Haas for 2027. Several rumours have emerged in the meantime. One suggested that Ollie was seeking an annual salary of more than six million euros.

However, Haas boss Ayao Komatsu firmly denied those suggestions in Mexico. “I have no idea where that came from. Honestly, I’ve experienced it sometimes this season as well. People say there is no smoke without fire, but some people really invent a story,” said the Japanese engineer.

“I don’t know who smoked up this 6 million euro number, that’s the first time I saw it on Instagram. Someone came up, this is a good thing to stir whatever up. I have no comments to make because it’s just not even close to the truth. Why do we engage in such absolute nonsense, what’s the point of it?” asked Komatsu.

Is Bearman seeking assurances?

He will probably also have to respond in Brazil to another rumour reported by Motorsport.com during the Mexico weekend. The website claims that Bearman is behind the delay, as he is asking Ferrari to set out a clear path to a seat at the Scuderia.

“Motorsport.com understands that the delay in agreeing terms has rather more complicated roots. According to Ferrari insiders, Bearman’s management have been pushing for assurances that he has a pathway to a race seat with the Scuderia in 2028, on the assumption that Lewis Hamilton will retire,” Motorsport.com wrote.

That appears unlikely to happen, however, as Lewis made it clear only last weekend that his current Ferrari contract will not be his last. Charles Leclerc signed a long-term deal with Ferrari this season. Despite the disagreements, both are still performing very well. At present, there is nothing to suggest that the Scuderia will opt for a change.

If Motorsport’s report is accurate, it is clear what Bearman is aiming for. Next year, he will be up against another Ferrari junior, Rafael Camara. Losing to him would put Bearman in a very uncomfortable position. Ferrari may also be considering that possibility and want to see a direct comparison between their two young drivers first.