The driver of the Ferrari team was unable to participate in the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix due to a health problem. As a result, Oliver Bearman, who serves as the reserve driver for Ferrari, made his debut in the Formula 1 race in place of Carlos Sainz.
Recently, Carlos Sainz underwent a surgical procedure for appendicitis, describing it as a successful operation. He expressed his gratitude towards those who provided support during his recovery period.
Due to his health issue, the Ferrari driver was unable to compete in the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix. Consequently, Oliver Bearman, who serves as the reserve driver for Ferrari, took his place in the Formula 1 race.
Bearman, a young British driver, had an impressive start by stepping in for Sainz at short notice. He qualified on pole position for the Formula 2 feature race in Jeddah.
Despite minimal preparation, Bearman showcased his talent by advancing to the second qualifying session in Formula 1. He narrowly missed out on reaching the third qualifying session by a mere 0.036 seconds, despite having only one hour of practice in an unfamiliar car.
Alongside Charles Leclerc, Sainz’s teammate, and Fred Vasseur, the team principal of Ferrari, the young driver wished Sainz a speedy recovery.
Vasseur confirmed the success of Sainz’s appendix surgery, which forced him to sit out the race weekend.
Sainz expressed his gratitude on social media for the prompt assistance he received, particularly 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 intervenes in the matter.
Sainz also congratulated Bearman for his impressive qualifying performance on behalf of Ferrari.
Leclerc is expected to start the Grand Prix from the second position, following behind Max Verstappen, who secured the top spot in the final segment of the qualifying round.
The event highlighted the supportive nature of the Formula 1 community and the remarkable adaptability and skill of emerging talents like Bearman, who stepped up in challenging circumstances.