Ralf Schumacher urges Ferrari driver Lewis Hamilton to retire from Formula 1

Former Formula 1 driver Ralf Schumacher has urged Lewis Hamilton to retire at the end of the current season to make way for emerging young talent.

Hamilton currently sits fifth in the Drivers’ Championship during his second campaign with Ferrari, level on points with reigning world champion Lando Norris.

The 41-year-old secured his maiden podium for the Italian manufacturer at the Chinese Grand Prix earlier this year.

However, subsequent sixth-place finishes in Japan and Miami have prompted criticism from six-time Grand Prix winner Schumacher.

Schumacher calls for youth progression

The German believes both the seven-time world champion and Fernando Alonso should step away from the sport entirely.

“Hamilton is in a better position again this year but, over the course of the season, he won’t stand a chance against Leclerc.”

Schumacher told Sky Germany’s Backstage Boxengasse podcast.

“It’s time – and I have to say the same about Fernando Alonso. Hamilton and Alonso have had a wonderful time in Formula 1. But now it’s time for both of them to step out of their cockpits at the end of the year and give young people a chance.”

Bearman backed as potential successor

Should the British veteran choose to end his career, Haas driver Oliver Bearman is viewed as the natural successor to partner Charles Leclerc.

Bearman has been part of the Ferrari driver academy since his teenage years.

Schumacher insists the 21-year-old is fully prepared for an immediate promotion to a front-running team.

“If he gets the chance, he’ll even pose a challenge to Charles Leclerc. I’m pretty sure of that – I’d say he’s actually better.”

Russell faces Mercedes pressure

Elsewhere on the grid, George Russell is facing intense scrutiny at Mercedes following the rapid rise of team-mate Kimi Antonelli.

The 28-year-old was expected to lead the Silver Arrows this season but has fallen 20 points behind his younger colleague.

Antonelli has claimed three consecutive victories, comprehensively overshadowing Russell’s opening-round triumph at the Australian Grand Prix.

Mechanical issues have hampered the former Williams driver in recent rounds, causing him to miss out on podium finishes in both Japan and Miami.

These ongoing struggles have led one former world champion to accuse the British driver of going missing when it matters most.