BREAKING: Ferrari told who to replace Lewis Hamilton with as remarkable U-turn on the… Read more
Ferrari told who to replace Lewis Hamilton with as remarkable U-turn on the cards
Former FIA steward Johnny Herbert has suggested that Ferrari should turn to a familiar face — Carlos Sainz — if Lewis Hamilton decides to walk away from his multi-year deal earlier than planned.
The speculation comes after a frustrating Hungarian Grand Prix weekend for Hamilton, where he openly remarked that Ferrari should “change driver.” His comments have raised eyebrows and fuelled debate about whether the seven-time world champion is truly settled in Maranello.
With 10 races remaining in the 2025 Formula 1 season, Hamilton’s campaign has been far from ideal. The 40-year-old remains 42 points adrift of team-mate Charles Leclerc in the Drivers’ Championship and is still chasing his first podium in Ferrari colours. Such results have only intensified questions about whether he might choose to end his F1 career at the conclusion of the season rather than seeing out his contract.
Should Hamilton step away, Ferrari would face a critical decision in selecting his successor. While young talent Oliver Bearman from Haas is widely viewed as the natural option, Herbert believes Ferrari boss Fred Vasseur could instead look to re-sign Sainz — a proven performer in the team’s red overalls.
“When Hamilton said [things are going on behind the scenes], I’m not entirely sure what he meant,” Herbert told Grosvenor Casino. “One interpretation is that discussions about replacing him have already taken place. It might be that both parties are aware that if the situation doesn’t improve, a decision will have to be made, and the next driver should be lined up for next year.”
Herbert ruled out Max Verstappen as a possible replacement, suggesting that Ferrari might instead opt for a younger, more attainable driver. He then pointed to Sainz, who left Ferrari at the end of 2024 after being replaced by Hamilton.
“I saw a short interview with Carlos Sainz recently,” Herbert continued. “When asked if he would consider returning to Ferrari, he said, ‘Yeah, maybe!’ That says a lot. Carlos was performing brilliantly when he was at Ferrari and was able to keep Charles under control. He’s still young and remains a capable driver, even though he’s had his challenges with Williams this year. But we all know how competitive he was during his Ferrari spell.”
Sainz, now racing for Williams, has endured a mixed season as the team battles to climb the Constructors’ standings. However, his proven ability to deliver consistent results under pressure — coupled with his prior experience at Ferrari — could make him a prime candidate should Hamilton’s exit become a reality.
Herbert’s comments add another layer to the growing uncertainty surrounding Hamilton’s Ferrari future. While the British driver’s signing was initially seen as a major coup for the Scuderia, the partnership has yet to yield the success many anticipated. If results fail to improve in the remaining races, both Hamilton and Ferrari may be forced to consider an earlier-than-expected parting of ways — potentially paving the path for a remarkable Sainz comeback.
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