'Flawless' Hamilton could maintain his lead in Monaco.

      Lewis Hamilton might surprise everyone as a contender for Ferrari in Monaco, having significantly outperformed teammate Charles Leclerc in Canada, according to Ralf Schumacher. Ferrari arrives in Monte Carlo with rising expectations. After leaving Montreal, McLaren's Lando Norris hinted that Ferrari could be favored for pole position, a sentiment echoed by team principal Andrea Stella, who noted the team's strengths align well with the iconic street circuit.

      Schumacher believes Hamilton could be in a better position than many anticipate. "He feels good now," the former Formula 1 driver remarked after Montreal. "Firstly, he felt comfortable on the track, and secondly, he was at ease with the car. He performed exceptionally well, especially in comparison to Charles Leclerc." While Hamilton finished in second place and even overtook Max Verstappen during the race, Leclerc experienced what he called the worst weekend of his career.

      "Charles Leclerc struggled all weekend," Schumacher told Sky Deutschland. "It shows how quickly things can change. He couldn't manage the car effectively, while Lewis executed everything flawlessly." Schumacher noted Hamilton's visible relief post-race was quite natural. "He was really happy, almost as if he had won," he said, adding that Hamilton deserved it after being unhappy following Miami. "So, I’m pleased for him."

      The German driver is not convinced that Ferrari has suddenly become McLaren's biggest rival, pointing out that the reigning champions did not fully utilize their potential in Canada. "They were off their game that weekend, partly due to poor tire decisions," Schumacher explained. "I’m not confident that Ferrari and Lewis Hamilton would have secured second if both McLarens had been competitive."

      Despite this, Schumacher sees Monaco as a significant chance for Hamilton. "He loves Monaco, and the car suits the circuit," he said, adding that Leclerc has always been strong there, creating uncertainty over who will come out on top. "The Ferrari performs well in terms of traction and curbs in Monaco. They’re definitely targeting the win."

      Monaco will also introduce unique technical adjustments as Formula 1 adapts to the contentious 2026 regulations. The FIA has confirmed that the active aerodynamic ’straight-line’ mode will not be utilized in Monaco, as simulations indicated cars might reach dangerously high speeds in critical areas of the circuit. Instead, teams will implement a special power-unit setting referred to as ’Rev1,’ which aims to reduce speeds by initiating battery derating at about 200kph. This alteration effectively negates the conventional advantages of overtake mode, as the multiple braking zones on the circuit allow drivers to recharge their batteries easily.

      Haas driver Oliver Bearman stated that Monaco would likely present fewer challenges than circuits where energy management has been likened to ’Mario Kart’ due to the many slow corners and braking areas. "Driving might be a bit more enjoyable; that would be nice," he suggested. "I don’t think there’s much room for innovation regarding energy management in Monaco due to the speed constraints. I believe it will resemble last year’s experience where we can drive freely, choose our gears without resorting to unnecessary lift-and-coast tactics. I'm actually quite excited about it. It should be great."