Lewis Hamilton aiming for redemption at Canadian Grand Prix amid Ferrari pressure and Peter Windsor warning
The Canadian Grand Prix may offer Lewis Hamilton a much-needed opportunity to deliver a strong result as Ferrari continues to search for performance improvements. With the characteristics of the Circuit Gilles Villeneuve aligning well with Hamilton’s driving style, the seven-time world champion could be poised to turn around what has been a challenging start to his Ferrari career.
Currently sitting sixth in the drivers’ standings, the former Mercedes man has yet to secure a podium finish since making the high-profile switch from the German side during the winter break. Despite the immense anticipation surrounding his move to the Scuderia, the results so far have fallen short of expectations. However, the 39-year-old remains hopeful that better performances lie ahead.
Historically, Montreal has been one of Lewis Hamilton’s strongest venues, with seven wins in 15 attempts making it his third most successful circuit in Formula 1. That track record could play a crucial role in rebuilding confidence after a disappointing opening to the 2025 season.
Ferrari team principal Fred Vasseur has already made it clear that the team is accelerating its development programme in an effort to catch up with McLaren. That includes pushing forward with key upgrade packages in time for the Canadian round. Ferrari is eager to deliver immediate results and close the gap at the front before the title fight slips out of reach.
Peter Windsor highlights potential challenge for Lewis Hamilton in Montreal
While the focus remains on improvement, racing analyst Peter Windsor has warned that Lewis Hamilton may face a specific challenge at the Canadian Grand Prix—one that might come from within the Ferrari garage. According to the former team and sponsorship manager., Lewis Hamilton could find himself at a disadvantage compared to teammate Charles Leclerc in one particular sector of the Montreal circuit.
Peter Windsor pointed out that the high-speed braking zone into the final corner chicane could be a critical area for Hamilton. The former Ferrari UK general manager suggested that, while the Briton might try to brake later than Charles Leclerc, doing so risks compromising his exit and ultimately his lap time. Windsor indicated that Hamilton would need to strike the right balance—braking early enough to maintain a clean line and securing a strong exit from the final corner.
As Ferrari works to fine-tune the SF-25, Lewis Hamilton will rely on Fred Vasseur’s leadership and motivation—something that former boss Toto Wolff excelled at during their time at Mercedes. With mounting pressure and a growing gap to the front-runners, maintaining morale and focus becomes essential, especially for a driver nearing 40 and still chasing a record-breaking eighth world title.
Lewis Hamilton faces crucial crossroads as Ferrari form dips
Formula 1 pundit Karun Chandhok has also weighed in on Lewis Hamilton’s situation, describing this period as a “critical” turning point in his Ferrari journey. While the Briton showcased flashes of brilliance with a sprint race victory in China, consistency has been lacking—particularly on Sundays.
His recent struggles were evident in Barcelona, where being overtaken by Sauber’s Nico Hulkenberg marked a new low point. Despite that setback, optimism remains that the Canadian Grand Prix could provide a more favorable platform for Lewis Hamilton to rebound and reassert himself within the team.
With the 2026 Formula 1 regulation overhaul on the horizon, both the seven-time Formula 1 world champion and Ferrari need clarity about their future direction. Montreal may not decide the season, but it could heavily influence the narrative for the months ahead.
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