David Coulthard DISAGREES with Lewis Hamilton Over F...read more

Ex-F1 driver sees promising signs for Hamilton despite difficult race in Barcelona

Former Formula 1 driver David Coulthard has offered a more optimistic view of Lewis Hamilton’s performance at the Spanish Grand Prix, despite the seven-time world champion calling it a race with “zero positives.”

Hamilton finished sixth at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya, three spots behind teammate Charles Leclerc. Although he managed to out-qualify Leclerc for just the second time this season, Hamilton lacked pace during the race and was instructed by the team to let his teammate through after only 10 laps.

The race continued to go downhill for Hamilton. He lost a position to George Russell during the pit stops and was later overtaken by Nico Hulkenberg following a Safety Car restart, ending his day outside the top five.

Historically, Barcelona has been a stronghold for Hamilton, who won there five times consecutively between 2017 and 2021. He also secured podiums in 2023 and 2024. However, this year’s race marked a low point, with Hamilton sounding deflated in his post-race comments.

But speaking on Channel 4, Coulthard urged a more measured outlook, noting that Hamilton showed flashes of improvement during the race.

“Whether Lewis likes it or not, Ferrari had to let the faster car go at that point, and sort things out later,” Coulthard said. “Early in the race, Lewis didn’t have the pace. But during the middle stint, he was matching Charles and seemed to be finding some rhythm.”

“There are reasons for optimism,” Coulthard added. “But right now, Lewis seems a bit worn down by the challenges of adjusting to life at Ferrari.”

Canadian GP: A Crucial Test for Hamilton

Looking ahead, the Canadian Grand Prix could be a defining weekend for Hamilton. The Circuit Gilles Villeneuve is a special place for him, having claimed his first career win there with McLaren in 2007. He has won in Montreal seven times—tying Michael Schumacher’s record.

Hamilton has typically performed well in Canada, rarely qualifying outside the top five. But if he is outperformed by Leclerc again, it may raise questions within Ferrari about his form and adaptation to the team.

Canada could be the turning point Hamilton needs—or further proof that his transition to Ferrari is still a work in progress.