Lewis Hamilton said he is nearing his first victory with Ferrari after finishing second [1] at the Monaco Grand Prix on June 7, 2026.
The result places the seven-time world champion in a stronger position to challenge for the title as he climbs to second [1] in the drivers' championship standings. This momentum is critical as Hamilton attempts to close the gap on championship leader Kimi Antonelli [1].
Speaking after the race in Monte Carlo, Hamilton expressed confidence in the team's trajectory. "We will get that win," Hamilton said [1]. He further noted that his first victory with the Italian stable is now within reach, stating, "My first Ferrari win couldn't be closer" [2].
This performance comes as Hamilton is four races [3] into his second season with Ferrari. The transition to the team has been a focal point of the sport, and the recent podium finish suggests a narrowing gap between the car's current performance and the top step of the podium.
Beyond the race results, Hamilton addressed speculation regarding his future in the sport. He dismissed rumors that he might step away from the grid to pursue retirement. "I’m staying put in Formula One, people are trying to retire me," Hamilton said [3].
The Monaco Grand Prix is historically one of the most difficult circuits for overtaking, making a second-place finish a significant indicator of both qualifying pace and race management. Hamilton's ability to maintain a podium position puts pressure on Antonelli's lead as the season progresses.
“"We will get that win."”
Hamilton's ascent to second in the standings signifies that Ferrari has reached a competitive equilibrium capable of challenging for the 2026 championship. By securing a podium in Monaco, Hamilton has validated his decision to remain in the sport and demonstrated that his adaptation to the Ferrari chassis is yielding tangible results against younger rivals like Kimi Antonelli.
