Fresh from his remarkable F1 success in Jeddah just two weeks ago, Aventum sponsored F2 driver Ollie Bearman was back in action at the Australian Grand Prix.
Following a sensational performance in Saudi Arabia, anticipation was high for Ollie to take to Melbourne's Albert Park circuit.
Qualifying
On a flyer at the end of the 30 minute qualifying session and on course for P2, a second engine failure in three race weekends dented Ollie’s hopes of topping the timings again. Despite his best efforts, Ollie found himself qualifying in P16 - his starting position for both the Sprint and Feature races.
Sprint Race
The Sprint race saw Ollie faced with early chaos as two front runners, Marti and Bortoleto, were taken out at the start. Seizing the opportunity, Ollie managed to climb his way up to eighth place.
However, after the race, Ollie was handed a ten-second time penalty for forcing PHM AIX Racing’s Joshua Duerksen off the track. After the stewards heard from both drivers and examined all available video evidence, they concluded Bearman was alongside Duerksen at the apex of Turn 4 and, while the Prema driver was in full control, ultimately ruled Ollie did not leave a ‘fair and acceptable width’ for his fellow driver at the exit of the corner.
As a result, the penalty pushed Ollie from P8 to P14 in the final classification.
Feature Race
Undeterred by setbacks, Bearman embarked on an impressive display of skill during the Feature Race. Making significant progress from 16th to ninth within just two laps, he showcased his skill with a series of thrilling overtakes - particularly the pass going into Turn 9, almost running out of road as he seized P9.
When Dennis Hauger plunged into the barriers, prompting a Virtual and then full Safety Car, half of the grid decided to pit for fresh tyres. Safety Car in, the race resumed with Ollie in P16 by Lap 17 and in last place by Lap 20.
Battling for position, Ollie scrapped with the Campos Racing car of Marti and the Hitech Pulse-Eight of Cordeel. Unfortunately, Ollie was hit by Marti in the battle, causing him to lose track position, for which Marti received a ten-second penalty.
By Lap 33, Ollie was up to P11, eventually managing to pull P10 out of the bag, despite completing a rather stunning 360-degree spin coming out of Turn 2 on his final lap.
Looking Ahead
Despite the trials faced at the Australian Grand Prix, Ollie’s performance highlighted his undeniable talent and resilience on track. While the results may not reflect his efforts, it is clear his potential remains undiminished.
As the season progresses, all eyes will be on Ollie as he continues to strive for success.
With some time before the next race of the season, be sure to join us as we head to Imola for the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix from 17-19 May for all the action.
