The seven-time world champion believes Ferrari can challenge Red Bull by combining forces with Charles Leclerc, despite missing out on pole position.
Lewis Hamilton believes Ferrari could use a coordinated team effort to challenge Max Verstappen for victory at the Singapore Grand Prix, with both Scuderia drivers starting directly behind the Red Bull polesitter.
Charles Leclerc will line up second at Marina Bay, with Hamilton third, giving Ferrari a potentially valuable strategic advantage as Verstappen attempts to secure his first Singapore Grand Prix victory.
Although Hamilton was disappointed to miss out on pole position, the Briton remains encouraged by Ferrari’s improved performance and believes the team has an opportunity to put sustained pressure on the Dutchman.
Hamilton frustrated by missed qualifying opportunity
Hamilton appeared competitive throughout the opening two qualifying sessions, with changes made to his Ferrari SF-26 improving its handling and allowing him to push with greater confidence.
However, the seven-time world champion struggled during Q3, losing valuable time through mistakes in the opening corners.
« Another difficult Q3. Congratulations to Max, he did an excellent job, » Hamilton admitted.
« We made some changes before qualifying and the car was much better. I really felt there was more potential in it. »
Hamilton explained that sudden losses of grip prevented him from delivering a clean lap when it mattered most.
« We were excellent in Q1 and Q2. Then, in Q3, I had snaps at Turns 1 and 3, which cost me two tenths. The rest of the lap was good. »
« On my final attempt, I experienced the same difficulties again. »
The Briton acknowledged that finding the ideal operating window had become increasingly challenging as track conditions evolved.
« Finding the right balance is very difficult. I think I had it in the first two sessions, but then you have to react to how the track evolves. »
« Looking back, perhaps I shouldn’t have changed my approach. »
Despite the disappointment, Hamilton remains confident that Ferrari has made meaningful progress and possesses the pace to challenge at the front.
Hamilton acknowledges Red Bull’s resurgence
Hamilton also praised Red Bull’s recent development progress, highlighting the improvements introduced at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix as an important factor in Verstappen’s renewed competitiveness.
« Red Bull have done a fantastic job. They’ve done very well with their engine, but also with their car, » Hamilton said.
« They’re an excellent team, and I think the upgrades they brought to Baku have really pushed them back towards the front. »
Verstappen arrives at Sunday’s race with considerable momentum, having already secured pole position for both the Sprint and the Grand Prix, as well as winning Saturday’s shorter race.
Nevertheless, Hamilton believes Ferrari’s presence immediately behind the Dutchman offers an opportunity to challenge his dominance.
Ferrari plans to put Verstappen under pressure
With Leclerc starting alongside Verstappen on the front row and Hamilton directly behind, Ferrari could benefit from having two cars in contention at the start.
Hamilton believes cooperation between the two drivers could prove decisive in challenging Red Bull.
« It’s a very good result for us to have two Ferraris so well placed, » he explained.
« We could really work together as a team tomorrow to stay close to Max and put him under pressure. »
The seven-time world champion acknowledged that Verstappen is likely to remain extremely competitive, but suggested Ferrari’s best chance could come through a collective effort rather than an individual challenge.
« I think that’s our only opportunity. He’ll certainly be quick, but together, working as a team, perhaps we can find a way past him. »
« Who knows? We’ll see. »
Ferrari faces a crucial strategic battle
With overtaking notoriously difficult around the Marina Bay street circuit, track position is expected to play a significant role in determining Sunday’s outcome.
Ferrari’s two-car presence near the front could provide additional strategic options, particularly during the opening laps and pit-stop phases.
For Hamilton, the priority will be converting Ferrari’s improved qualifying performance into a genuine challenge for victory.
With Verstappen chasing his maiden Singapore Grand Prix win, the prospect of Leclerc and Hamilton working together adds another dimension to Sunday’s battle at Marina Bay.
