Lewis Hamilton Ferrari future sparks Oliver Bearman warning from David Coulthard

David Coulthard has cautioned Ferrari not to "miss that opportunity" of promoting Oliver Bearman at the right time, suggesting Lewis Hamilton will be the driver to eventually step aside. The 13-time grand prix winner says teams must "catch that wave" when a rising star emerges.

Why it matters:

Ferrari faces a critical decision on when to promote Bearman, a Ferrari Academy product currently impressing at Haas. With Hamilton under contract through 2026 and Leclerc's future unclear, timing is key to avoid losing a top talent to rivals.

The details:

• Bearman outscored teammate Esteban Ocon in his 2025 rookie season and has collected 17 points in the first four races of 2026, sitting P8 in the standings.
• Former F1 analyst Will Buxton: "Ferrari have got a star on their hands... The question isn't will they promote him, it's when."
• Coulthard warns: "When a star is ascending, you've got to catch that wave... Getting that moment to bring him into the real spotlight is way hotter than mid-grid drivers believe."
• Buxton adds that if Ferrari waits too long, another team like Red Bull or Mercedes could "swoop in and steal him."

What's next:

Hamilton has rebounded in 2026 after a difficult first Ferrari season, scoring his first podium in China. However, the SF-26 has not challenged for wins, and pressure may grow if performance doesn't improve. Ferrari must weigh Bearman's readiness against Hamilton's experience.