Ferrari Prepares Lewis Hamilton Succession Amid Driver Frustration

Bernie Ecclestone, former Formula One CEO, has advised seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton to retire from racing, citing Hamilton's long career and current struggles adapting to Ferrari's SF-25. Hamilton has yet to reach the podium this season, while teammate Charles Leclerc has performed strongly, including securing the team's first pole position of the year. After another poor qualifying result at the Hungarian Grand Prix, Hamilton expressed frustration by telling his team to "change driver," which, though not literal, signals internal consideration of his future at Ferrari. Ferrari appears prepared for a post-Hamilton era, with promising young driver Oliver Bearman, the standout of Ferrari's junior academy, emerging as the leading candidate to succeed him. Bearman has demonstrated strong performances in his debut season and is motivated to race and win with Ferrari in the future. Despite Hamilton's contract through 2027, both Ecclestone and Ferrari management seem to recognize the need for a transition given Hamilton's recent difficulties and fatigue.