Bearman in Prema F2 link

Ferrari Academy driver Ollie Bearman is set to move up to FIA Formula 2 in 2023 with Prema Racing, according to Autosport sources. The Aston Martin Autosport BRDC Young Driver of the Year finalist, who finished third in his rookie FIA Formula 3 season this year, would stay with the

Italian squad for his move up the ladder.

Although the 17-year-old’s seat is yet to be officially confirmed, a deal for his graduation is said to be close.

As the reigning Italian and German Formula 4 champion, Bearman scored one win and seven additional podium finishes during his impressive rookie F3 season. Alongside sixth-placed Arthur Leclerc and seventh-placed Jak Crawford – both second-year F3 drivers – he helped secure Prema its third F3 teams’ championship in four years.

It is uncertain whether either of Prema’s current F2 drivers, 2021 F3 champion Dennis Hauger and Jehan Daruvala, will continue with the team in 2023. Daruvala has previously said it is unlikely that he would continue in the series next year, after three campaigns at that level. The duo sit fifth (Daruvala) and 11th (Hauger) in the points respectively with one round to go in Abu Dhabi, although Daruvala is just nine points shy of third place in the standings.

Meanwhile, Calan Williams will not contest the final round of his rookie F2 season with Trident in Abu Dhabi. The 22-year-old Australian scored a fourth place early in the season in Jeddah, but has otherwise not featured in the top 10.

Williams said that “we are now at a point where it is important that I consider what is the best path for me to pursue in the interests of my ongoing career in motorsport”. Trident has yet to announce a replacement driver for Yas Marina.