Guenther Steiner, the former Haas team principal, has suggested that Lewis Hamilton’s tenure at Ferrari may be in jeopardy following a lackluster debut season. Steiner has identified young talent Oliver Bearman as a potential successor to Hamilton, hinting at a changing of the guard before the upcoming Las Vegas Grand Prix.
Hamilton’s performance at Ferrari has sparked speculation about his future, with Steiner expressing concerns about the possibility of an early departure if the Briton’s struggles persist into the next season. Bearman, who previously filled in for Carlos Sainz at the Saudi Arabia Grand Prix and joined Ferrari’s Driving Academy in 2022, has impressed with his performances at Haas.
Steiner, in a segment of The Red Flags podcast, endorsed Bearman as a viable replacement for Hamilton if the latter fails to deliver next season. The ex-team principal praised Bearman’s progress and solid driving, asserting that the young driver’s potential could see him move to a top team by 2027.
Bearman’s recent strong showings, including scoring points in four consecutive races, have positioned him close to surpassing competitors in the Drivers’ Championship Standings. Despite Ferrari’s lack of victories in the 2025 season and Hamilton’s podium drought, Bearman’s rise has sparked optimism amid the team’s underwhelming campaign.
Notably, Sky Sports F1 reporter Ted Kravitz echoed Steiner’s sentiments, predicting Bearman’s eventual promotion to Ferrari. Kravitz emphasized Bearman’s inevitability as Hamilton’s successor, highlighting the young driver’s promising trajectory.
Hamilton, amidst the speculation surrounding his future, has indicated a long-term commitment to Ferrari, citing his existing contract and downplaying talks of an imminent departure. The seven-time world champion remains focused on his current obligations and shows no signs of an impending exit from the team.
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