Gerhard Berger: Hamilton should not be underestimated.

      In Barcelona, Lewis Hamilton fulfilled a long-held dream – he won a race driving a Ferrari. Gerhard Berger, the Austrian Formula 1 veteran, stated in an interview with Austria Press Agency that the seven-time world champion should not be underestimated, and new successes could very well follow the first victory.

      “To effectively use the electric systems of these cars, you need to work a lot with your head,” believes Berger, considering that the seven-time world champion is currently aided by experience and knowledge of the technical side of things. In this regard, he agrees with the opinion of Toto Wolff, the head of the Mercedes team, who is confident that the 2026 car is much better suited to Hamilton's familiar driving style than the previous generation's technology.

      At the same time, according to Berger, who also raced for Ferrari in his time, Hamilton's high results could complicate relationships with his teammate, Charles Leclerc, who has always been considered the team leader from Maranello but currently ranks only 4th in the championship standings and trails Lewis by 40 points:

      “This situation is fraught with difficulties in itself. Perhaps Hamilton could become the new team leader. Once Lewis smells blood, he should not be underestimated; he will continue to fight for victories.”