Hamilton warns Ferrari is ‘running out of time’ to turn around their F1 season ahead of Monaco Grand Prix

MONTE CARLO, May 23 — Lewis Hamilton admitted yesterday that Ferrari is running out of time to turn their Formula 1 season around but remains hopeful of a strong performance at the Monaco Grand Prix following a determined fourth-place finish last weekend.

Since his switch from Mercedes, where he claimed six of his seven world titles, to Ferrari, Hamilton has faced intense pressure and scrutiny, yet he is still chasing his first podium finish with the Scuderia after seven races.

He also understands that Ferrari may soon halt development on this year’s car to focus on next year’s campaign ahead of the 2026 power unit regulation changes.

After a promising run at last Sunday’s Emilia Romagna Grand Prix, where Hamilton outpaced teammate Charles Leclerc for the first time, he’s optimistic that recent car upgrades will improve qualifying performance this weekend.

“It’s getting late, and we’re running out of time,” Hamilton said regarding the 2025 car’s development. “But for me, this is a foundation year — getting familiar with the team and helping to implement the changes needed for long-term success.

“We need a faster car, and I have full faith that we can achieve it.”

Leclerc, meanwhile, sounded cautious about his chances of replicating last year’s emotional Monaco victory, where he became the first home winner in the modern era.

“If you want an honest answer about my chances, then they’re low,” Leclerc said. “Our car hasn’t been strong in low-speed corners, and Monaco is all about low-speed corners.

“On paper, this doesn’t look like the most promising track for us, but Monaco is unique and different — so maybe we’ll get a pleasant surprise once we get on track tomorrow.”

Having grown up and studied in Monaco, Leclerc has a unique advantage on the challenging street circuit.

“I hope we’ll uncover something new about the car that we haven’t seen this season. Until qualifying and that crucial Q3 lap, you always hold out hope of doing something special because you don’t really know where you stand.

“So, I’ll keep hoping we can repeat what happened last year. That win is still very fresh in my mind — coming back here reminds me of that special moment.” — AFP