Former Haas team principal Guenther Steiner has suggested that Lewis Hamilton’s tenure at Ferrari might be short-lived following his underwhelming debut season. Steiner, aged 60, has identified young talent Oliver Bearman as a potential successor to Hamilton before the upcoming Las Vegas Grand Prix.

Hamilton’s performance has sparked discussions about his future at Ferrari due to his lackluster start. Steiner speculates that if Hamilton’s struggles persist into the next season, the seven-time world champion’s association with the Italian team could end prematurely.

Bearman, who filled in for Carlos Sainz at the previous Saudi Arabia Grand Prix and joined Ferrari’s Driving Academy in 2022, has impressed with his performances at Haas this year.

The promising English driver has often been touted as Hamilton’s possible replacement, a view shared by Steiner. In an episode of ‘Gas or Brake’ on The Red Flags podcast, Steiner expressed his endorsement for Bearman taking over from Hamilton if the latter fails to deliver next season.

Steiner commended Bearman’s progress, highlighting his consistency and strong showings on the track, indicating that he could secure a seat in a top team by 2027 if not at Ferrari.

Bearman’s recent success includes scoring points in his last four races and closing in on rivals in the Drivers’ Championship Standings. Despite Bearman’s rise, Ferrari has faced disappointment this season, with Hamilton yet to secure a podium finish after 21 races, unlike his teammate Charles Leclerc, who has achieved seven podium finishes.

Echoing Steiner’s sentiments, Sky Sports F1 pitlane reporter Ted Kravitz believes it is inevitable for Bearman to eventually replace Hamilton at Ferrari. Kravitz emphasized this on The F1 Show, asserting that Bearman’s promotion to Ferrari is a clear progression.

While speculation surrounds Hamilton’s future, the driver himself has hinted at staying with Ferrari for the long term, citing his existing contract and downplaying talks of an impending departure.

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