(Motorsport-Total.com) – Lewis Hamilton sees his first win for Ferrari closer than ever. The seven-time world champion is experiencing a significant performance increase after a difficult debut season in 2025 and is currently even second in the drivers’ standings.
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Hamilton had a disappointing first season for Ferrari in 2025, failing to achieve a podium finish in a Grand Prix for the first time in his career. He was significantly behind his teammate Charles Leclerc at the end of the season and had at times even publicly called for changes within the team.
With the regulation change for the 2026 season, and a new vehicle concept associated with it, Hamilton was able to contribute significantly better to the car’s development. In addition, adjustments were made to the technical environment at his request, which, according to his own statement, play an important role in the upswing.
Strong start to the season and duel with Antonelli
After six races this season, the 41-year-old is in second place in the drivers’ world championship and recently showed two consecutive second-place finishes behind the dominant Kimi Antonelli. “It could hardly be closer,” says Hamilton after the Monaco Grand Prix. Despite a 66-point deficit to Antonelli, the Briton remains positive about his title chances.
“I can hardly believe that I’m second in the championship and I’m very happy and grateful for that,” Hamilton continues. He also highlighted the support from team principal Fred Vasseur, with whom he had already worked during his GP2 days.
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“I wouldn’t have done it without this team, without the reliability we have, and not without Fred either. Fred has been great in his support. Last year was very difficult for both of us, and I asked for certain changes, and he implemented them. Now I’m seeing the results of that work,” says Hamilton, satisfied.
Ferrari still in the chasing role
Even if Ferrari is not yet the fastest team in the field, Hamilton emphasizes that development is going in the right direction. They must continue to push and reduce the gap step by step.
A possible victory would be Hamilton’s first since the 2024 Belgian Grand Prix and his 106th Grand Prix success overall in his career.
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