Former Haas team principal Guenther Steiner has expressed doubts about Lewis Hamilton’s future at Ferrari following a lackluster debut season. Steiner, aged 60, has identified young talent Oliver Bearman as a potential replacement for Hamilton in the upcoming Las Vegas Grand Prix.
Hamilton’s performance at Ferrari has sparked discussions due to his underwhelming start. Steiner believes that if Hamilton’s struggles persist into the next season, the seven-time world champion’s tenure with the Italian team could be shortened.
Bearman, who filled in for Carlos Sainz at the previous Saudi Arabia Grand Prix, has a connection with Ferrari after joining their Driving Academy in 2022 and impressing with Haas this year.
Steiner, in an interview on ‘The Red Flags podcast,’ endorsed Bearman as a strong candidate to take over Hamilton’s position if needed. He praised Bearman’s recent performances, highlighting his improvement and competitiveness compared to more experienced drivers.
Despite Bearman’s promising form, Ferrari has faced challenges in the 2025 season, with Hamilton yet to secure a podium finish after 21 races. Meanwhile, his teammate Charles Leclerc has achieved seven podiums, trailing only behind a few other top drivers.
Steiner’s views align with those of Sky Sports F1 pitlane reporter Ted Kravitz, who also believes that Bearman’s elevation to Ferrari is inevitable. Kravitz, speaking on ‘The F1 Show,’ confidently stated that Bearman will eventually succeed Hamilton at Ferrari.
Hamilton, on the other hand, has hinted at staying with Ferrari for the foreseeable future, citing his existing contract and downplaying speculations about his departure.
Formula 1 enthusiasts can catch all the action live with Sky’s new Essential TV and Sky Sports bundle, offering coverage of every practice, qualifying session, and race. The deal includes access to over 100 TV channels and complimentary subscriptions to Netflix and Discovery+ alongside Sky Sports content.