The Belgian Grand Prix did not end on a positive note for the Haas Formula 1 Team. After showing encouraging signs during the Sprint Race on Saturday, the Sunday Grand Prix turned into a missed opportunity. Both Esteban Ocon and Oliver Bearman were unable to capitalize on their potential, with a series of strategic misjudgments from the pit wall significantly compromising their final results.
However, with the Hungarian Grand Prix rapidly approaching, there is little time for regrets. The American-based outfit has a new opportunity to end the first part of the 2025 Formula 1 season on a high. Both drivers are motivated to fight back and re-enter the points-paying positions at the Hungaroring, a circuit that has often produced surprises.
Haas Team Principal Ayao Komatsu shared his thoughts on what the Budapest circuit might bring for the team. He admitted that it is difficult to make precise predictions, but acknowledged the track’s unique characteristics: “It’s hard to say for sure, but Budapest is a high-downforce circuit where overtaking is extremely challenging—similar to Monaco. We were competitive there earlier this season and scored points with Esteban Ocon. Since then, we’ve made significant improvements to the car,” Komatsu explained.
The Japanese engineer added that while most upgrades were focused on improving the car’s outright pace, every small development plays a role in boosting overall performance. “We now have a very solid foundation thanks to the upgrade package we introduced at Silverstone. If we execute everything properly—get the setup right and the driver does his part—I have no doubt that we’ll be competitive again,” he concluded confidently.
High Spirits for Oliver Bearman
Young British driver Oliver Bearman is particularly enthusiastic about the Hungarian round, as the venue holds positive memories for him. He has achieved several podium finishes at the Hungaroring in junior categories and even participated in Free Practice 1 at this circuit last season.
“I’m really excited to be returning to Budapest,” Bearman shared. “Last year I drove in FP1 and I found it to be a very enjoyable track. It has the feel of a street circuit because of the number of corners packed into a relatively short layout. For us drivers, it’s always a special challenge. After Spa, I’m looking forward to this race, and I hope we can end the first half of the season on a strong note.”
Special Connection to Budapest for Esteban Ocon
Esteban Ocon also holds fond memories of the Hungarian Grand Prix. The French driver secured his first-ever Formula 1 victory at this track in 2021. He emphasized that returning to Budapest always feels special due to the personal and professional milestones tied to the venue.
“For me, coming back to Budapest every year is a unique experience. This is where I achieved my first Grand Prix win, and being back on this circuit always brings back many great memories,” said Ocon. The Frenchman highlighted that it is vital for the team to maintain the momentum they built at Spa-Francorchamps, where the Haas car showed promising pace, especially during the Sprint Shootout and Sprint Race.
“The Hungaroring has always been one of my favorite tracks on the calendar. Since overtaking is notoriously difficult there, qualifying performance becomes even more critical. We will prepare thoroughly to secure strong results on both Saturday and Sunday, so that we can head into the summer break with high spirits,” he concluded.
As Haas prepares for the final race before the mid-season pause, all eyes will be on whether Ocon and Bearman can convert their motivation and recent progress into a return to the top ten. The Hungarian Grand Prix might just be their opportunity for a strong comeback.
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