Ferrari Miami upgrade hype checked as Hamilton issues stark verdict

The seven-time world champion, who claimed his maiden podium with the Maranello outfit at the Chinese Grand Prix, largely offered a tempered response regarding the possibility of surging past the Mercedes team. Hamilton continued by noting the deficit in the power unit aspect which the Ferrari team currently have compared to their rivals. Speaking to GPblog, Hamilton said:

The British driver did, however, praise the work carried out by Ferrari during the break, stressing that consistent development will be crucial if they are to close the gap to the front. “The team has done an amazing job over this break to improve the car. I think it's not going to be just here. It's going to be building. We have to build that over the next few weeks, this first half of the season at least, to be able to try and close the gap.”

The Ferrari team, so far, while largely being quicker than much of the field, have trailed the Mercedes team in all three races held so far this campaign. The likelihood of a pecking order shake-up remains an idea being nursed by several within the F1 paddock, particularly after the lengthy in-season break.

While Hamilton is cautiously optimistic, teammate Charles Leclerc has downplayed the likelihood of upgrades making a significant difference in Miami. The Monegasque driver, however, noted that he expects the grid to be closely knit.

Leclerc also highlighted the gap to McLaren, which he expects to be closer through the race weekend in Miami.

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