Former Haas team principal Guenther Steiner has suggested that Lewis Hamilton’s stint at Ferrari may be shortened following a lackluster first season with the team. Steiner, aged 60, has identified young talent Oliver Bearman as a potential replacement for Hamilton, hinting at a transition ahead of the upcoming Las Vegas Grand Prix.
Hamilton’s performance at Ferrari has sparked discussions about his future, especially considering his underwhelming start. Steiner speculates that if Hamilton’s struggles persist into the next season, his time with the Italian squad could be curtailed prematurely.
Bearman, who previously filled in for Carlos Sainz at the Saudi Arabia Grand Prix last season, has showcased promise since joining Ferrari’s Driving Academy in 2022. His impressive performances at Haas this year have caught Steiner’s attention, positioning him as a strong candidate to step into Hamilton’s shoes.
During an episode of ‘Gas or Brake’ on The Red Flags podcast, Steiner endorsed Bearman as a potential replacement for Hamilton, emphasizing the young driver’s skill and consistency on the track.
Despite ongoing uncertainties surrounding Hamilton’s future, including speculation about a potential departure, Hamilton himself has hinted at a prolonged stay with Ferrari, citing the length of his current contract.
Meanwhile, Bearman has been on a successful streak, securing points in his last four races and closing in on competitors in the Drivers’ Championship Standings. However, Ferrari’s season has been marked by disappointments, with the team yet to achieve a victory in the 2025 campaign.
Steiner’s views are mirrored by Sky Sports F1 pitlane reporter Ted Kravitz, who believes that Bearman’s elevation to Ferrari is inevitable, foreseeing a future where Bearman takes over from Hamilton.
In light of these developments, the Formula 1 landscape is poised for potential changes, with a new generation of talent like Bearman emerging as contenders for the sport’s top-tier teams.