Lewis Hamilton: “P2 in Monaco feels great, but Kimi Antonelli was impossible to beat”. Lewis Hamilton celebrated a strong P2 finish at the Monaco Grand Prix.

Hamilton: “It’s fantastic to be here. Overtaking Kimi? Impossible”

Lewis Hamilton appeared smiling and clearly satisfied as he arrived at the post-race press conference in Monaco. It was his second consecutive podium finish and his eighth career podium on the streets of the Principality, reinforcing his strong record at one of Formula 1’s most demanding venues.

“It’s fantastic to be up here and, you know, such a privilege to still be here driving for Ferrari. Still being one of the 22 drivers in this sport and in front of all these people, it’s an incredible experience. So I’m grateful that I kept going because we started third and finishing second is fantastic.

“I remember last year my fans were telling me to remember who I am, and now I’m able to give them what they want and what I want. I’m very happy,” the British driver said.

Hamilton: “Chances of winning after the restart? Passing Antonelli is impossible”

Reflecting on the restart after Charles Leclerc’s crash, Lewis Hamilton admitted that he briefly thought about the possibility of fighting for the win.

“I was thinking about winning. At the restart there was an opportunity, but unfortunately we had more or less the same start. I think I only gained a little bit on him and I was almost on his rear wing, but not enough to launch myself into the lead. The performance they have [referring to Mercedes] is on another level,” he added.

He also pointed to Ferrari’s limitations compared to their rivals, particularly in traction and overall balance.

“Our balance and then obviously their power, even though here it wasn’t a big issue. Their traction is incredible: in the corners you can really understand the advantage they have. We hope to bring some developments soon. The team is working hard back at the factory, so I hope they are happy with this result,” he concluded.