Lewis Hamilton has been tipped to start getting into the head of Ferrari team-mate Charles Leclerc if he keeps up his improved form in his second season with the Scuderia.
A tougher first year, then a reset
Hamilton had a difficult debut season at Ferrari after moving from Mercedes. For the first time in his Formula 1 career, he failed to reach a grand prix podium across the whole year.
Why this season feels different
Changes to the technical rules and a shift in the car's development have moved the package closer to Hamilton's preferred driving style. The result: a stronger start.
- Ferrari has emerged as the clear number two team behind Mercedes.
- Hamilton finished fourth in the opening race in Australia, one place behind Leclerc.
- In China he beat Leclerc and finally returned to the podium, ending a 26-race drought with Ferrari.
Montoya's take
Juan Pablo Montoya, who finished third in the drivers' standings in 2002 and 2003, says he senses a different Hamilton this year.
"He's hungry, he's more comfortable in the car," Montoya said. "I think his working group is a lot better than it was last year, and I think that he's got a lot more support around him this year, and that makes a lot of difference.
"That's going to pay off big dividends. If he can start beating Charles, then it's going to get into Charles' head pretty big."
Where the standings stand
Heading into the Japanese Grand Prix, Hamilton sits one place and one point behind Leclerc in the drivers' championship.
The bigger picture
Montoya also warned that Mercedes look strong and may remain ahead over the rest of the season. When asked if Ferrari could catch Mercedes, he was clear.
"No, I think Mercedes has got more in the bag."
