British Formula 1 newcomer Oliver Bearman, 18, makes his dream debut at the Saudi Grand Prix in a record-breaking manner

Ferrari stand-in Oliver Bearman made a dream debut at the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix, finishing seventh.

The 18-year-old British rookie is Last minute substitution for Carlos SainzLater, the Spaniard was diagnosed with appendicitis and required surgery.

Bellmann had only an hour of practice and qualifying (as he usually drives a Formula 2 car) and started in 11th place, ahead of Yuki Tsunoda, Guanyu Zhou and Nico Hulkenberg , gained points.

On worn tyres, he managed to hold off British driver Lando Norris and seven-time F1 champion Lewis Hamilton, finishing seventh in the 50-lap race to become the first F1 racer to win. The youngest Briton to start or finish a race and the third-youngest national driver to compete in F1.

Later, Xiong Man said with a smile on his face: “I don’t have time to be nervous or think too much.

“I was focused on what to do and didn’t have time to think about the gravity of the situation, which was probably a good thing.

“I’m going to feel that on Monday and I’m going to be very proud.

“I’m sure when I step back, I’m going to pinch myself.

“My phone is going crazy, but I’ll check it tonight,” he added.

Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, March 9, 2024: British driver Oliver Behrmann (Ferrari) at the wheel during the 2024 FIA Formula 1 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix at the Jeddah Marina Circuit, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.  (California Sports Media, AP Photo)
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Behrmann drives at the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix.Image: AP

The Chelmsford youngster was voted driver of the day by the fans and his performance also earned praise from his rivals.

Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc described him as “incredible”, adding: “It’s impressive and I’m sure he’s very proud.

“Everyone has noticed his talent and I’m sure it’s only a matter of time before he breaks into F1.”

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Hamilton said Bellman did a “really, really good job”, adding: “I’m really impressed and that just goes to show how talented he is.”

The day’s winner Max Verstappen, who made his debut nine years ago aged just 17, said Bellmann was “very, very impressive”.

“I watched his first few laps in practice because that’s where you can tell if a guy is comfortable in the car and by the second or third lap I thought ‘that’s a strong start’ and got 11th, only six tenths out of pole position at that point, which is more than you can ask for.

“He did an incredible job.”

Read more from Sky News:
Christian Horner accuser suspended by Red Bull
Horner says abuses against his family ‘enough is enough now’

Verstappen’s victory temporarily distracted from the ongoing saga at Red Bull Racing.

Owner Christian Horner has been captain of the team since its inception F1 2005, recently Charges cleared of Misconduct Targeting a female colleague following an investigation by its Austrian parent company Red Bull GmbH.

The 50-year-old British boss has always denied the claims, but controversy has swirled after a document containing hundreds of leaked WhatsApp messages was sent to key figures in the sport via anonymous email accounts.

It is unclear whether the information was included in the misconduct investigation and whether it is true.

Max Verstappen after winning the Saudi Grand Prix.Image source: Reuters
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Max Verstappen after winning the Saudi Grand Prix.Image source: Reuters

Verstappen’s second win of the season came amid speculation over whether he would stay at Red Bull. His father says the team is ‘in danger of falling apart’ If Horner remains in charge.

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Verstappen hinted on Friday that he might reconsider his future at the team if his mentor Helmut Marko leaves.

Marco told Sky Sports on Saturday that he would stay.

“I always say the most important thing is that we work together as a team and everyone stays peaceful,” Verstappen said after the race.

“I think that’s what we’ve all agreed on within the team. So hopefully from now on too, everyone is trying to focus in the same direction. I think the positive thing about it all is that it doesn’t affect our performance, So this is a very strong team.”

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