Lewis Hamilton appears to be approaching the twilight of his remarkable Formula 1 career, with his tenure at Ferrari entering a period of uncertainty. The seven-time world champion has struggled to replicate his usual dominance since joining the Maranello outfit, enduring a challenging 2025 season in which he failed to reach the podium in all 20 races. Hamilton’s difficulties have been compounded by the current generation of ground-effect cars, which have required a different driving approach compared to previous F1 eras.
Looking ahead to the 2026 season, Hamilton is counting on the new F1 regulations to help him adapt and find better synergy with the Ferrari SF-26. However, his long-term future in the Scuderia remains in doubt, as Ferrari has made it clear that they will not automatically extend his contract beyond 2026. The only potential path for Lewis Hamilton to remain at the team would be activating an optional extension for 2027, a scenario that seems increasingly unlikely given his recent struggles.
Ferrari’s management has reportedly been concerned about the Briton’s body language and visible frustration throughout the 2025 season. On multiple occasions, the 40-year-old Briton has expressed discontent with the car’s handling and even suggested that the team consider replacing him, highlighting the growing tension between driver and team. These developments have fueled concerns among Ferrari fans, who have questioned both the financial investment in Lewis Hamilton and the lack of results comparable to the dominance once enjoyed by Michael Schumacher.
Oliver Bearman emerges as a potential Ferrari candidate
With Lewis Hamilton’s future at Ferrari uncertain, speculation is mounting over who could succeed him behind the wheel. While Italian media have hinted at a potential approach for George Russell for 2027, it is Ferrari junior driver Oliver Bearman who has increasingly captured the attention of the Maranello leadership. The 20-year-old British rookie, currently driving for Haas, has enjoyed an impressive 2025 campaign, highlighted by a P4 finish at the Mexican Grand Prix, which showcased his raw speed and racecraft.
Journalist Nelson Valkenburg has indicated that Bearman has strong backing from Ferrari team principal Fred Vasseur, emphasizing that the boss is “very, very much” supportive of the young driver. Valkenburg noted that Ollie Bearman’s measured and consistent performance in Mexico proved his capability to both Ferrari and the wider F1 paddock, demonstrating that he can handle pressure and deliver results even as a rookie.
The Ferrari junior’s rapid development this season has positioned him as a leading contender for a future Maranello seat. Despite some minor rookie errors earlier in the year, his performances with Haas have been consistently impressive, suggesting he is well-prepared for the challenge of stepping up to a top-tier team. With the 2026 F1 regulations set to shake up the grid, Ferrari may see the upcoming season as an ideal opportunity to integrate a young talent like Ollie Bearman into the Maranello roster.
Is Bearman ready to replace Hamilton?
Lewis Hamilton himself has praised Ollie Bearman’s performance in Mexico, describing it as “mega,” which underscores the impression the young Brit has made on Ferrari. Veteran commentator Martin Brundle has also highlighted Bearman’s readiness for a promotion, arguing that he should be considered for a Ferrari seat as soon as one becomes available. Given Hamilton’s potential departure at the end of 2026, Ollie Bearman stands out as a prime candidate to inherit one of the most coveted seats in Formula 1.
Ferrari appears to be preparing Ollie Bearman meticulously for a future in the team, viewing him as a potential long-term asset capable of competing for world championships. The combination of his raw speed, maturity under pressure, and technical understanding of modern F1 machinery makes him a compelling choice to succeed the seven-time Formula 1 world champion. Should Oliver Bearman be promoted, it would be a seamless transition for Ferrari, ensuring continuity while also nurturing the next generation of championship contenders.
As the 2026 season approaches, all eyes will be on Lewis Hamilton and Oliver Bearman. Hamilton will be seeking to maximize his final opportunities at Ferrari, while Bearman continues to impress and solidify his reputation as one of the most promising young talents in Formula 1. The coming months could well define the future of both drivers, shaping the next chapter of Ferrari’s F1 story.
Leave a Reply