Luis Hamilton delivers Ferrari’s strongest 2026 result with second in Canada. Starting fifth, he gains two places as McLaren pits early on a drying track after committing to intermediates.

He then shadows Max Verstappen, trims the gap, and completes a late pass for second. He controls the closing laps to the flag, underlining Ferrari’s improved competitiveness.

Hamilton credits a supportive environment for the step. He says the team has welcomed him openly, a contrast to a challenging start, and references ongoing contract discussions with Ferrari that continue in the background.

Montreal’s long straights and heavy braking zones expose power and efficiency weaknesses. Ferrari’s Miami upgrade, plus iterative tweaks, improves straightline performance and stability through chicanes, narrowing deficits seen earlier.

Rivals also bring developments, with Mercedes unveiling a significant package. Against that backdrop, Ferrari converts pace through clean execution, measured tyre management, and timely responses to changing track grip.

McLaren’s early stop for intermediates proves costly as the circuit dries. Ferrari capitalises, releasing Hamilton into clear air. He manages tyres, extends the stint, and positions for a late attack.

Early in 2026, Ferrari looks closest to Mercedes, but form dips and McLaren gains ground. This podium stabilises the trendline and supports the Ferrari positives from the weekend outlined post-race.

Hamilton’s closing-phase pace and clean pass demonstrate enduring racecraft. The move echoes his bold move in Canada analysis and shows confidence in braking stability and traction.

Hamilton urges Ferrari to keep pushing for more load and efficiency. The team targets incremental gains, with Canada’s learnings feeding into the Canada sprint debrief and ongoing factory correlation work.

His experience shapes setup direction and upgrade priorities. If Ferrari maintains reliability and tyre control, this Montreal benchmark can close the gap to the front and reframe the 2026 campaign.

Visual Summary

Daniel Miller

Daniel Miller reports on Formula 1 Grand Prix weekends with race-day analysis, team-radio highlights, and point-standings updates. He explains power-unit upgrades, aerodynamic developments, and driver rivalries in straightforward, SEO-friendly language for a global F1 audience.