The seven-time world champion started fifth on the grid but quickly moved forward in a chaotic opening phase, taking advantage as McLaren gambled on intermediate tyres in tricky conditions and lost early track position.
From there, Hamilton settled into a long chase behind Red Bull’s Max Verstappen. The Dutch driver controlled much of the race early on, but Hamilton gradually closed the gap in the closing stages as Ferrari showed improved race pace compared to recent rounds.
His persistence paid off when he completed a decisive overtake to move into second place, a position he held to the chequered flag. It marked his best finish since joining Ferrari, and a clear step forward in their season progress.
Speaking after the race, Hamilton praised the team’s effort but made it clear there is more to come.
“They’ve welcomed me with open arms,” he said. “It’s been tough for a year and a bit, but to finally find our sweet spot and have a good weekend feels amazing. Racing Max was great. I’m so happy.”
He also highlighted the importance of continued development, especially after seeing upgrades introduced by rivals such as Mercedes during the weekend.
“A lot of teams brought upgrades here. We’ve got more coming too,” Hamilton explained. “This track is very demanding and to still get this result gives me high hopes. But we’ve got to keep pushing.”
Ferrari had shown early-season flashes of being close to the front but had slipped behind McLaren and Mercedes in recent rounds. The strong performance in Montreal, however, suggests a potential return to competitiveness.
The result also came at a key moment in the championship build-up, with the next race taking place at the iconic Monaco Grand Prix at the Circuit de Monaco from 5 to 7 June, a street circuit where precision and qualifying pace are expected to be crucial once again.
