Former Haas team principal, Guenther Steiner, has suggested that Lewis Hamilton’s stint at Ferrari might be shortened due to his underwhelming performance in his debut season. Steiner has endorsed young talent Oliver Bearman as a potential successor to Hamilton, predicting a transition before the upcoming Las Vegas Grand Prix.
Hamilton’s future with Ferrari has been widely discussed following his lackluster start. Should Hamilton’s struggles persist next season, Steiner foresees a premature end to the seven-time world champion’s tenure at the Italian outfit.
Bearman, who filled in for Carlos Sainz at the Saudi Arabia Grand Prix last year and joined Ferrari’s Driving Academy in 2022, has impressed with his performances at Haas this season.
The prospect of Bearman taking over from Hamilton has gained traction, with Steiner emphasizing the young driver’s capabilities during a segment on ‘The Red Flags podcast.’ Steiner expressed his support for Bearman, highlighting his strong showings and suggesting that a top team spot could be on the horizon for him.
Bearman’s recent success on the track, securing points in the last four races and closing in on higher rankings in the Drivers’ Championship, contrasts with Ferrari’s overall season disappointment. Despite this, Hamilton is yet to secure a podium finish after 21 races, while his teammate Charles Leclerc has achieved seven podium places.
Steiner’s viewpoint aligns with that of Sky Sports F1 pitlane reporter Ted Kravitz, who also anticipates Bearman’s eventual promotion to Ferrari. Kravitz believes it is inevitable that Bearman will eventually replace Hamilton at Ferrari.
Despite ongoing speculation about his future, Hamilton has hinted at his commitment to Ferrari, citing his existing contract and downplaying talks of an imminent departure.
In other news, Sky has enhanced its Ultimate TV and Sky Sports bundle, now including additional streaming services and comprehensive coverage of Formula 1 alongside various other sports events.
