[Saba Sports News] As British rising star Oliver Bearman shines brightly in Formula 1, former F1 ace David Coulthard has issued a stern warning to Ferrari. He stressed the team must seize the perfect moment to promote the talented youngster without missing the chance, which will likely force seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton to make way for the new talent.
Coulthard pointed out that teams should back promising rookies to reach their peak when they are on the rise. Keeping them waiting too long in an uncompetitive environment will only wear down their edge. He also said mid-field teams and top-tier giants face totally different pressures. Impressive performances at Haas draw far less public scrutiny than underperforming and falling behind teammates at Ferrari. Therefore, Ferrari’s management needs to act with extreme caution before putting Bearman under the spotlight. Hamilton’s contract with Ferrari runs until at least the end of 2026. After several lackluster seasons, the veteran claimed his first podium since joining Ferrari at this year’s Chinese Grand Prix, marking a notable upturn in both form and mentality. He remains determined to chase his eighth world championship, yet the clash between his age and career prospects is inevitable.
Meanwhile, details of teammate Charles Leclerc’s contract renewal remain unclear, and his management has repeatedly urged the team to build a title-contending car. Amid delicate internal dynamics and fierce competition from rival top teams, hesitation over Bearman’s promotion could see the promising prospect poached by rivals including Red Bull, Mercedes and McLaren. A crucial decision-making battle over Ferrari’s future has quietly begun.
In my opinion, should Hamilton retire or leave Ferrari ahead of schedule, Bearman will stand out as a prime candidate nurtured within Ferrari’s youth academy. For now, Bearman is fully focused on his commitments with Haas throughout the 2026 season.