Oliver Bearman responds to Red Bull speculation as Max Verstappen's future remains uncertain

Oliver Bearman has admitted he is "flattered" by speculation linking him with a future move to Red Bull, but insists his full focus remains on Haas as uncertainty continues to surround Max Verstappen's long-term future.

The 21-year-old Briton has emerged as one of Formula 1's brightest young talents after impressing during his second full campaign with Haas. Recent reports have suggested Red Bull are monitoring Bearman as they evaluate future driver options while Verstappen weighs up his plans beyond 2026.

Although Verstappen remains contracted to Red Bull until the end of 2028, discussions about his future have intensified after reports that his representatives held talks with McLaren. The four-time world champion is believed to have until October to decide whether he will remain with Red Bull for the 2027 season.

Asked about the rumours ahead of this weekend's Belgian Grand Prix, Bearman admitted the speculation was flattering but stressed there is nothing concrete.

"It's quite flattering to hear things like that. To be linked with a team like Red Bull, who have been incredibly successful, even if it's only rumours, is really nice," Bearman said.

"But at the moment they're only rumours, and I'm fully focused on what I'm doing here with Haas."

Ferrari remains Bearman's long-term ambition

Bearman has been part of Ferrari's Driver Academy since 2022 and made an impressive Formula 1 debut for the Scuderia at the 2024 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix when he replaced Carlos Sainz, who underwent emergency surgery.

Since securing a full-time seat with Haas, Bearman has consistently outperformed experienced team-mate Esteban Ocon, strengthening his reputation as one of the sport's most promising young drivers.

Despite the Red Bull speculation, the British driver has repeatedly stated that Ferrari remains his ultimate dream.

"Ferrari trusted me from the very beginning, from Formula 3, and gave me my opportunity in Formula 1. They are the reason I'm here today."

"Right now I'm enjoying my time with Haas. The faster I perform today, the easier I make my future."

With no contract confirmed beyond 2026, Bearman knows strong performances remain the best way to attract interest from the grid's biggest teams.

Verstappen refuses to reveal his plans

Meanwhile, Verstappen remained characteristically guarded when questioned about his future during Thursday's media session at Spa-Francorchamps.

The Dutchman declined to confirm whether he intends to stay with Red Bull, insisting he will only speak publicly when there is genuine news to share.

"I've said many times that if there is something new, I'll say it myself."

Verstappen admitted Red Bull's mixed campaign has been frustrating, with aerodynamic issues and reliability problems preventing the team from consistently challenging at the front despite encouraging engine performance.

Still, he insists nothing has changed inside the team.

"We're looking forward and trying to solve the current issues with the car."

"Sometimes you're disappointed after a race, but then you reset, go back to the factory and prepare for the next weekend. That's how we've always worked together."

Belgian Grand Prix could provide more answers

While Bearman continues to build his reputation at Haas, Verstappen's future remains one of Formula 1's biggest talking points.

If Red Bull fail to return to championship-winning form, speculation surrounding both Verstappen's next move and Bearman's potential rise to a top team is only likely to grow as the 2026 season progresses.