How hard is the step up from F2 to F1? Jolyon Palmer explains the challenge faced by Oliver Bearman in Jeddah


Given the lack of testing in modern Formula 1, it’s arguably never been more difficult for rookies to make the step up to the top category – and 18-year-old Oliver Bearman was thrown in at the deep end last weekend when he was called up by Ferrari at the last minute to deputise for Carlos Sainz.
GP2 champion Jolyon Palmer knows what it’s like to step up to Formula 1 from the second tier – and explains here the challenge Bearman faced in Jeddah…
Next Up
Related Articles
Norris collects World Championship trophy at FIA Awards
‘I have achieved my dream, that little boy's dream’ – Norris
Beyond The GridThe best of 2025, from Norris’ evolution to Brad Pitt’s ‘need for speed’
Power RankingsWho did our judges rank as the best F1 driver of 2025?
GALLERY: Check out renders of the innovative 2026 car
10 ways to get your Formula 1 fix during the winter break
