Despite encouraging pace shown by Ferrari during practice sessions in Monte Carlo, Hamilton remains cautious about the team’s hopes of converting speed into a race win on one of Formula One’s most difficult circuits to overtake on.
Ferrari arrived in Monaco with growing confidence after recent improvements to the SF-26, while Hamilton’s podium finish in Canada further boosted expectations surrounding the Italian team. However, the British driver stressed that qualifying and the race start will be absolutely crucial around the narrow streets of Monaco.
“We will need our best ever start if we want to challenge for victory here,” Hamilton reportedly said as Ferrari prepared for what many believe could be their strongest opportunity yet to end Mercedes’ dominant run in the 2026 season.
The Monaco circuit is traditionally known for reducing the impact of straight-line power, an area where Ferrari has struggled against Mercedes this season. That has led several rivals and analysts to tip Ferrari as genuine contenders for pole position and possibly victory this weekend.
Hamilton, however, has refused to get carried away by the growing hype surrounding Ferrari’s chances in Monte Carlo.
“I’m not listening to any of the hype,” Hamilton said while emphasizing that Ferrari are still learning and improving with every race weekend.
Ferrari showed impressive pace during Friday practice, with Charles Leclerc and Hamilton finishing among the fastest drivers on track. The team looked capable of challenging for the front row before Mercedes rookie sensation Kimi Antonelli stunned the paddock with a sensational qualifying performance to grab pole position.
Hamilton eventually secured a second-row starting position behind Antonelli and reigning world champion Max Verstappen, leaving Ferrari with work to do heading into Sunday’s race.
The 41-year-old is still searching for his first Grand Prix victory since joining Scuderia Ferrari, but signs of progress have continued to emerge throughout the 2026 campaign. Hamilton recently claimed that Ferrari’s car performs particularly well in slower corners — a key advantage around Monaco’s tight and twisting layout.
Meanwhile, hometown hero Leclerc will also be desperate to deliver another memorable result for Ferrari in Monaco after previously enjoying strong performances on the famous street circuit.
With overtaking expected to be extremely difficult once again, Ferrari’s hopes could depend heavily on strategy, reaction time off the line, and avoiding costly mistakes in the opening laps.
All eyes will now be on Hamilton and Ferrari to see whether they can finally turn their improved pace into a long-awaited victory under the bright lights of Monte Carlo.