Former Formula 1 driver Ralf Schumacher believes Lewis Hamilton has rediscovered his championship form with Ferrari and could potentially secure his first victory for the Italian team at this weekend’s Monaco Grand Prix. Speaking on the Backstage Boxengasse Podcast, Schumacher highlighted how the seven-time world champion appears to have finally established a strong connection with his Ferrari, setting the stage for what could be a breakthrough performance in Monte Carlo.
Hamilton’s impressive second-place finish at the Canadian Grand Prix served as clear evidence of his resurgent form, marking his best result since joining Ferrari and reducing the championship points gap with teammate Charles Leclerc to just three points. “He felt great both on the circuit and with the car,” Schumacher explained, noting the dramatic contrast from Hamilton’s struggles in Miami. “You could see how happy he was, almost as if he’d just won. And I can completely understand that feeling.”
The German racing veteran observed a stark role reversal between the Ferrari drivers in Canada, where Leclerc appeared tense and struggled to find his rhythm while Hamilton delivered a flawless performance. “Leclerc appeared tense throughout, which is a clear sign of how quickly things can change in these races,” Schumacher noted. “He just couldn’t get comfortable in the car, while Lewis executed a flawless performance.” The Monégasque driver’s difficulties with car setup and pushing too hard highlighted how circuit-specific challenges can impact even the most talented drivers.
Looking ahead to Monaco, Schumacher sees favorable conditions for Ferrari’s success, particularly given the circuit’s emphasis on traction and kerb handling – areas where the SF-24 excels. “Monaco is all about traction and handling over curbs, areas where the Ferrari really shines,” he emphasized. While acknowledging that McLaren remains a formidable competitor despite their suboptimal performance in Canada, Schumacher believes Hamilton’s comfort level at Monaco, combined with the car’s characteristics, creates a legitimate opportunity for victory.
The former Williams driver concluded that both Ferrari drivers possess the credentials to win in Monaco, with Hamilton’s recent form and natural affinity for the street circuit positioning him as a genuine contender. “Hamilton, in particular, feels very comfortable on this circuit; both he and the car clearly love it,” Schumacher stated. “However, Leclerc has also been exceptionally strong in Monaco in the past, so it will be fascinating to see which of them comes out on top.”