Ralf Schumacher thinks that F1 veterans Lewis Hamilton and Fernando Alonso should retire after this season. Both former champions, aged 41 and 44 respectively, should make way for the younger generation according to the German. It is known that Alonso’s Aston Martin contract ends at the end of 2026, but there are many question marks about the collaboration between Hamilton and Ferrari. For now, however, both seem likely to remain active in 2027 as well.
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In the Backstage Boxengasse podcast, Schumacher explained that both Hamilton and Alonso are ready for retirement. Especially the seven-time world champion, according to him, would stand no chance at Ferrari; teammate Charles Leclerc is too strong for that. “Hamilton is doing better this year,” Schumacher admitted, after advising Ferrari last year to immediately show the Brit the door. “But over a full season, he stands no chance against Leclerc. It’s time to stop.”
Bearman to Ferrari
“The same applies to Fernando Alonso,” he added. “Both have had a fantastic time in Formula 1, but now it’s time to hand over the baton at the end of the year and give the next generation a chance.” Schumacher already has a suitable candidate in mind for Hamilton’s prestigious Ferrari seat; he hopes Oliver Bearman will be promoted to the Scuderia as soon as possible. After all, the young Brit has already shown impressive things at Haas.
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“I believe that he (Bearman, ed.), if given the chance, will even be a formidable opponent for Leclerc,” the six-time GP winner explained. “I’m quite sure of that. So I would say he is actually better than Hamilton.” Two years ago, Bearman already got a taste of the Italian team when he unexpectedly had to fill in for Carlos Sainz. The Spaniard underwent surgery due to appendicitis, which meant Bearman – then still active in Formula 2 – was called up at short notice as a replacement. During the race weekend in Saudi Arabia, he took care of the last free practice, qualifying, and the race. He finished seventh and immediately scored valuable points for the team.
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