The Formula 1 world is buzzing as Lewis Hamilton gears up to make his highly-anticipated debut with Scuderia Ferrari in 2025. After a storied career with Mercedes, the seven-time world champion is heading to Maranello in pursuit of an eighth title—a move that has fans dreaming of a Hamilton-Ferrari fairytale. But while Hamilton’s arrival marks a new chapter for Ferrari, the team is already looking ahead to life beyond the Briton’s tenure.
“Hamilton’s Ferrari Adventure”
Hamilton’s move to Ferrari is a seismic shift in F1, bringing the sport’s most iconic driver to its most legendary team. The 39-year-old has signed a reported two-year deal covering the 2025 and 2026 seasons, during which he aims to capture the elusive eighth world championship, breaking Michael Schumacher’s long-standing record.
“I’m excited to begin this journey with Ferrari,” Hamilton said recently, expressing his enthusiasm for donning the famous red overalls. However, at 39, the Briton’s long-term future in the sport remains uncertain, even as he shows no signs of slowing down.
“Ferrari’s Succession Plan: Enter Oliver Bearman”
Ferrari is known for its meticulous planning, and it appears the team is already preparing for a post-Hamilton era. Enter Oliver Bearman, the 19-year-old British prodigy who has been making waves in Formula 2. Bearman turned heads earlier this year by scoring points in his F1 debut for Haas, stepping in for Carlos Sainz at the Saudi Arabian GP—a feat that earned him a contract with Haas for 2025.
Ferrari has long been tied to Bearman, and many see him as a potential future world champion. By placing him at Haas, Ferrari is giving the youngster the experience he needs to develop into a top-tier driver. Should Hamilton decide to retire after 2026, Bearman could seamlessly step into Ferrari’s ranks for the 2027 season, becoming the cornerstone of the team’s future.
“A Strategic Move for the Long Term”
While Ferrari has not made any official announcements about Bearman’s future with the Scuderia, the signs are clear. Placing Bearman in Haas—a Ferrari-affiliated team—gives the Maranello-based outfit an opportunity to closely monitor his progress. By the time 2027 rolls around, Bearman will have gained valuable experience competing in the midfield, making him a prime candidate to replace Hamilton.
The move is not just about filling a seat; it’s about continuity. Ferrari has struggled in recent years to find consistency in their driver lineup and has often been accused of lacking long-term planning. Bringing Bearman into the fold represents a shift in strategy—an investment in a young talent who could anchor the team for years to come.
“Hamilton’s Legacy at Ferrari”
Even with plans for the future, Hamilton’s impact on Ferrari will be immediate. As one of the most successful drivers in F1 history, his experience, work ethic, and racecraft will elevate the team both on and off the track. His partnership with Charles Leclerc, who is expected to remain at Ferrari for the foreseeable future, could prove to be a formidable pairing.
While the Hamilton era at Ferrari may be relatively short, his presence could lay the groundwork for future success. Should Hamilton secure his eighth title with Ferrari, it would not only cement his legacy but also reinstate Ferrari as the pinnacle of F1 excellence—a reputation they’ve struggled to maintain in the modern era.
“The Bearman Era Looms”
Bearman, meanwhile, is quietly becoming one of the most exciting prospects in Formula 1. With Ferrari backing him, his 2025 season at Haas will be pivotal. Success in the midfield could fast-track his journey to Maranello, where he would inherit one of the most coveted seats in motorsport.
Ferrari’s strategy hinges on Bearman meeting expectations, but the team’s faith in the young Briton suggests they see him as the next big thing. A potential 2027 debut at Ferrari would position Bearman as a rising star tasked with carrying the Scuderia into the next decade.
“The Road Ahead for Ferrari”
As Ferrari prepares for Hamilton’s arrival, they’re simultaneously laying the foundation for a sustainable future. Whether it’s Hamilton chasing records or Bearman developing into a potential champion, the Scuderia’s dual focus on the present and the future reflects a newfound strategic clarity.
For fans, the prospect of seeing Hamilton in red is tantalizing. But for Ferrari, the journey doesn’t stop there. With Bearman waiting in the wings, the team is building a pipeline of talent designed to keep them at the forefront of Formula 1 for years to come.