Hamilton backed to beat Leclerc in Monaco Ferrari showdown

Lewis Hamilton has received fresh backing from former F1 driver Ralf Schumacher to outshine Ferrari teammate Charles Leclerc at the Monaco Grand Prix. Schumacher points to Hamilton's strong performance in Canada and the unique nature of the Monte Carlo circuit as key factors in his favor.

Why it matters:

This intra-team battle at Ferrari is one of the most closely watched storylines of the season. Monaco, where driver skill and car balance matter more than raw power, could be Hamilton's first real chance to assert himself over Leclerc in the Scuderia.

The details:

• Schumacher told Sky Deutschland that Hamilton looked in stronger form than expected, noting his happier demeanor and perfectly managed weekend in Canada: "He just delivered, certainly in relation to Charles Leclerc."
• However, Schumacher expressed some caution: Ferrari's second place in Canada was partly due to McLaren's strategic tire error. "I'm not sure Ferrari and Lewis Hamilton would have finished second if both McLarens had been there."
• Despite that, he believes Monaco plays to Ferrari's strengths: "Traction and kerbstones — that's something the Ferrari is good at in Monaco. So at least they're going for the win."
• Hamilton himself also expressed confidence after Canada. He noted that Monaco is the one track where "power is not king," and that "if you take away the power deficit, we're in the fight with these guys." He plans to study hard with engineers to position the car right from Practice 1.
• Last year, Hamilton finished fifth in Monaco. His last win on the street circuit came in 2019, when he beat Sebastian Vettel and Valtteri Bottas.

What's next:

Monaco presents a unique opportunity for Hamilton to make a statement against Leclerc. If Ferrari's balance suits the tight corners and kerbs, the seven-time champion could end his podium drought at the Principality and close the gap in the intra-team battle.