Ferrari at a pivotal moment amidst speculation regarding Bearman and Russell.

      "Generation Z is set to challenge the existing hierarchy."

      Ferrari's potential driver lineup is once again under examination following a tumultuous season, leading to increased speculation about George Russell's long-term goals, alongside the impressive rise of Oliver Bearman. Charles Leclerc, who recently became engaged and whose management has become more open about his frustrations, has faced yet another year filled with missed chances.

      Corriere della Sera reports that Ferrari's management is interested in Mercedes' Russell, whose connection with Toto Wolff is believed to have diminished somewhat in light of the team’s ongoing search for Max Verstappen. "Toto still cares about my career," Russell said after signing a one-year extension with Mercedes for 2026, which includes additional options. "I’d rather not discuss specifics, but I’m very pleased with the agreement we've reached."

      Sources indicate that Russell’s contract keeps him available for 2027, coinciding with what insiders refer to as a potential "generational shift" at Ferrari. Meanwhile, ESPN suggests that Ferrari is not currently looking to negotiate a long-term deal with Lewis Hamilton, whose performance has been erratic since his arrival.

      Vasseur downplayed Hamilton’s challenges following the Mexico race, highlighting how close the competition has been this season: "The field has been incredibly tight from the start. If you fail to maximize your potential, you quickly lose positions. Lewis and the team needed time to refine the finer points, and in the current landscape, every detail counts."

      However, it is the 20-year-old Bearman’s performance that has genuinely electrified the paddock. Currently on loan to Haas for the 2025 and 2026 seasons, the Ferrari junior impressed with a P4 finish in Mexico. F1’s official website labeled Bearman as "the heir apparent" at Ferrari—a sentiment echoed by Italian media. La Gazzetta dello Sport’s Luigi Perna lauded his rapid rise: "Ferrari would be wise to focus on him for the future when the team requires rejuvenation. Generation Z is coming to challenge the superstars' hierarchy."

      Austria’s Osterreich newspaper took it a step further, stating that "the decision regarding Hamilton’s future in Maranello has already been made. The end is imminent, and his replacement is reportedly already selected." Sky’s Martin Brundle shared the same view: "When a seat opens up at Ferrari, I am convinced Bearman will be the one to fill it." Even Haas chief Ayao Komatsu recognizes the implications, saying, "Oliver is a Ferrari driver, and we have him on loan for at least two years. I see him as a future Ferrari driver." Komatsu further remarked on Bearman’s maturity: "We never treated him like a rookie. His feedback is exceptional, his approach remarkable, and his speed impressive. Since Singapore, he has consistently delivered strong performances."