Hinchcliffe names Lewis Hamilton's successor at Ferrari
James Hinchcliffe, a former IndyCar driver, has dubbed Oliver Bearman the "heir" to Lewis Hamilton at Ferrari.
"It would surprise no one if Bearman was heir apparent to the seat Hamilton currently occupies when the seven-time champion decides to call it a day on his Formula 1 endeavours.”- James Hinchcliffe
Hamilton, who joined Ferrari this year after his decorated 12-year stint at Mercedes, has yet to achieve a podium in a grand prix race for the Prancing Horse.
The seven-time World Champion contract expires after next year, and his future beyond that is unknown.
Bearman is part of Ferrari’s junior programme, and Hinchcliffe has suggested Bearman is the best candidate to take over from the 40-year-old.
The 20-year-old Haas driver achieved his career-best finish last time out at the Mexican Grand Prix, finishing P4.
Writing on Formula1.com. Hinchcliffe said: “Save for a few rookie mistakes early in the year, Bearman is showing himself to be a well-rounded grand prix driver.
“This begs the question, what could be next for him?
“We know he has a multi-year deal with Haas. Just as we know Hamilton has a multi-year deal with Ferrari.
“Given he came up through the Ferrari academy, made his (rather successful) debut for the team last year, coupled with the growth and performance he is showing week in and week out, it would surprise no one if Bearman was heir apparent to the seat Hamilton currently occupies when the seven-time champion decides to call it a day on his Formula 1 endeavours.”
Hinchcliffe is a big fan of the Briton and believes he will have a long career in F1.
He said: “Needless to say, whether it’s with the Scuderia or not, Bearman’s performances are making it seem like he will be a staple of the grid for years to come.”
Bearman does have a race start with Ferrari on his CV, when he stepped in for Carlos Sainz at the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix in 2024, crossing the line in P7.
Read also
Check out the latest episode of GPblog's F1 Paddock Update here!
Want to stay up-to-date with what happens in the Formula 1 paddock? Then GPblog's F1 Paddock Update video is the perfect way to do it, as Tim and Jim cover the latest news every Grand Prix weekend.
Subscribe to GPblog's YouTube channel and turn on notifications to never miss the latest episodes.
Make sure to follow 'F1 Paddock Update' on Spotify as well!
Popular on GPBlog
Schumacher breaks down Piastri's future: 'Paddock rumors are clear'
How Aston Martin will take over from Red Bull Racing in 2026
Palmer blasts McLaren's Mexico GP radio call to Norris as 'stupid'
