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Ferrari Makes Unexpected Driver Change Ahead of 2025 Monaco Grand Prix
In a surprising and dramatic development just days before the 2025 Monaco Grand Prix, Scuderia Ferrari has confirmed a last-minute change to its driver lineup. The team announced that reserve driver Oliver Bearman will step into one of the main race seats for the weekend, marking a significant moment in both his career and Ferrari’s season.
The Italian team has yet to disclose which of its regular drivers—Lewis Hamilton or Charles Leclerc—will be sitting out the race. However, insiders suggest that the absence may be due to a temporary health issue or personal situation. While Ferrari did not provide full details in their statement, the decision has sparked a wave of speculation across the Formula 1 paddock, especially as Monaco is one of the most prestigious and challenging races of the season.
Oliver Bearman, a 19-year-old British rising star and member of the Ferrari Driver Academy, has been chosen to take the seat. Bearman made headlines earlier this year with an impressive Formula 1 debut at Haas, where he demonstrated maturity, confidence, and speed. His promotion to Ferrari for the Monaco Grand Prix is a clear sign of the team’s faith in his potential.
The young driver’s task will be far from easy. The Monaco Grand Prix is known for its unforgiving street circuit, which features narrow corners, close barriers, and virtually no room for error. For a driver with limited Formula 1 experience, especially in a top-tier team like Ferrari, the stakes could not be higher.
Ferrari Team Principal Frédéric Vasseur expressed full confidence in Bearman’s ability to handle the pressure. “Oliver has been working closely with the team all season and has shown an exceptional attitude and skillset. This opportunity comes at a demanding venue, but we believe he’s prepared for the challenge,” Vasseur said.
The absence of one of Ferrari’s senior drivers—whether Hamilton, who joined the team in 2025, or long-standing Monegasque driver Leclerc—comes at a crucial point in the season. Ferrari is currently in a tight battle in the Constructors’ Championship, and consistency is key. While the team believes Bearman can deliver a solid performance, the sudden change may affect race strategy and overall competitiveness for the weekend.
Despite the circumstances, Bearman’s debut in red is a historic and emotional moment, especially at a venue as iconic as Monte Carlo. It also offers a glimpse into Ferrari’s long-term future, potentially laying the groundwork for Bearman to earn a permanent seat in the coming seasons.
The team assured fans that the absent driver is expected to return soon and that this replacement is likely a one-off situation. However, the spotlight is now firmly on Bearman, as he prepares to race on one of Formula 1’s most glamorous stages in front of millions worldwide.
All eyes will be on Ferrari this weekend—not just for their performance, but to see how their young stand-in handles the pressure of racing in the famous scarlet red.
