Lewis Hamilton's chances of winning an eighth Formula 1 title have been called into question despite Ferrari's improved performance this season. The Scuderia have secured two Grand Prix victories in the first 11 rounds of the 2026 campaign, along with nine podium finishes, a notable turnaround from a winless 2025.
Hamilton's Strong Form at Ferrari
Hamilton has contributed five of those podiums, including his first race win as a Ferrari driver. Charles Leclerc also ended his win drought with a victory at the British Grand Prix, his first since 2024. The team's development has been impressive, positioning them to challenge Mercedes in the second half of the season.
However, former F1 driver Juan Pablo Montoya, while impressed by Ferrari's progress, remains skeptical about Hamilton's title prospects. In an interview with Express Sport via Betpack, Montoya stated: "I don't think he is going to be world champion again." Instead, he believes Hamilton is "comfortable" with his current situation at this stage of his career.
Montoya's Assessment of Ferrari's Strategy
Montoya praised Ferrari's approach, saying: "His performances show he is on the right path, it shows Ferrari is on the right path and they're doing an amazing job. They're really being smart about how they go about their business and their strategies. And that is really cool to see."
Hamilton trails championship leader Kimi Antonelli by 50 points heading into the summer break. He has dropped points in recent races due to four penalties over the last three events, each for different reasons. Montoya downplayed these mistakes, citing Hamilton's pit lane speeding offence in Hungary as an example of the risks taken when chasing every millisecond.
Hamilton's Response and Future Outlook
Hamilton has accepted responsibility for each incident and, after the Hungary race, said he is "going to try to make sure I don't give them any reason to penalise me." Despite the setbacks, his pace and the car's performance have been strong, even at circuits not expected to suit Ferrari.
Former world champion Damon Hill disagrees with Montoya's view, saying of Hamilton: "He's going to win at anything he does. I don't think it sits easily with him to back off." The debate over Hamilton's title chances continues as the season resumes.
