Former Haas team principal Guenther Steiner has suggested that Lewis Hamilton’s tenure at Ferrari might be shortened following a lackluster debut season. Steiner, aged 60, has endorsed young talent Oliver Bearman as a potential replacement for Hamilton before the Las Vegas Grand Prix.
Hamilton’s performance at Ferrari has sparked discussions due to his underwhelming start. Steiner anticipates that if Hamilton’s struggles persist in the upcoming season, the seven-time world champion could see an early end to his time with the Italian squad.
Bearman, who substituted for Carlos Sainz at the previous season’s Saudi Arabia Grand Prix and later joined Ferrari’s Driving Academy in 2022, has impressed with Haas this year.
Considered a strong contender for Hamilton’s seat, Bearman has garnered attention as a promising successor. Steiner, speaking on ‘The Red Flags podcast’s ‘Gas or Brake’ segment, expressed his support for Bearman potentially taking over from Hamilton.
Steiner remarked, “Gas! If Hamilton doesn’t perform next year, he should be replaced. Ollie is excelling, showcasing his talent. His recent flawless driving has outshined more experienced and higher-paid drivers like Ocon.”
He further stated, “I believe if Ferrari doesn’t offer him a seat in 2027, he will secure a spot in a top team due to his exceptional performance. Bearman’s consistent and impressive drives make him a captivating watch.”
Bearman has demonstrated his potential by scoring points in his last four races and closing in on Isack Hadjar and Nico Hulkenberg in the Drivers’ Championship Standings. Despite his successes, Ferrari has endured a disappointing season without a victory in 2025, and Hamilton has yet to secure a podium finish in 21 races. Meanwhile, Charles Leclerc has achieved seven podium finishes, surpassed only by Lando Norris, Oscar Piastri, and Max Verstappen.
Ted Kravitz, a Sky Sports F1 pitlane reporter, shares Steiner’s sentiments and believes Bearman’s advancement to Ferrari is an inevitable outcome. Kravitz, speaking on ‘The F1 Show,’ confidently stated, “It’s evident that Ollie Bearman will succeed Lewis Hamilton at Ferrari. It’s a clear trajectory.”
Despite ongoing speculations about his future, Hamilton has hinted at staying with Ferrari for a considerable duration, emphasizing the length of his contract and downplaying any imminent talks about his departure.
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