Guenther Steiner, the former Haas team principal, has raised doubts about Lewis Hamilton’s future with Ferrari following a lackluster debut season. Steiner, aged 60, has identified young talent Oliver Bearman as a potential successor to Hamilton, suggesting that Bearman could step in before the Las Vegas Grand Prix.
Hamilton’s performance at Ferrari has sparked discussions due to his underwhelming start. If Hamilton’s struggles persist into the next season, Steiner believes the seven-time world champion’s tenure at Ferrari might come to an early end.
Bearman, who previously filled in for Carlos Sainz at the Saudi Arabia Grand Prix last season, has a connection with Ferrari through the Driving Academy since 2022. His impressive performances with Haas this year have caught the attention of Steiner and others.
During a segment on ‘The Red Flags podcast,’ Steiner expressed his support for Bearman as a potential replacement for Hamilton, emphasizing Bearman’s strong performances and potential in Formula 1.
Bearman’s recent success on the track, including scoring points in the last four races, has positioned him close to surpassing competitors like Isack Hadjar and Nico Hulkenberg in the Drivers’ Championship Standings. Despite Bearman’s rise, Ferrari has faced a challenging season without a win in 2025, and Hamilton still seeks his first podium after 21 races.
Steiner’s views align with those of Sky Sports F1 pitlane reporter Ted Kravitz, who shares the belief that Bearman’s promotion to Ferrari is inevitable. Kravitz highlighted Bearman’s talent and potential to eventually take over from Hamilton at Ferrari.
While speculation swirls around Hamilton’s future, the British driver has suggested that he is in no rush to depart Ferrari, citing his existing contract. Hamilton emphasized that contract discussions typically occur closer to the contract’s end, indicating his focus on the current racing season.
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