Juan Pablo Montoya: “If Hamilton Has a Fast Car, No One Can Beat Him, Not Even Max Verstappen”
As the 2025 Formula 1 season approaches, all eyes are on Lewis Hamilton, who is set to join Ferrari after over a decade with Mercedes. Amidst this major career move, former F1 driver Juan Pablo Montoya has made a bold statement about Hamilton’s chances of returning to his dominant form.
“If Hamilton has a fast car this season, we’ll see the old Hamilton from a few years ago—the Hamilton that nobody can beat, not even Max Verstappen.”
This statement has sparked widespread discussion, especially given Red Bull’s and Max Verstappen’s current dominance. But does Montoya have valid reasons to believe in Hamilton’s resurgence?
Hamilton and Ferrari: A Game-Changing Partnership?
After leaving Mercedes, the team that helped him secure six of his seven world championships, Hamilton faces one of the biggest challenges of his career with Ferrari. The move has been met with mixed reactions, but it also fuels hope for a new championship era.
Ferrari has not won a drivers’ title since Kimi Räikkönen in 2007, but with Hamilton’s arrival and recent technological advancements, 2025 could be their year.
Here’s why Montoya believes Hamilton can return to peak form and challenge Max Verstappen for the title.
1. Can Ferrari Provide a Competitive Car?
One of the biggest questions surrounding Hamilton’s move to Ferrari is whether the team can give him a car capable of winning the championship.
How Has Ferrari Improved?
Since 2022, Ferrari has shown glimpses of raw speed, especially in qualifying. However, they struggled with strategy and tire management. By 2024, Ferrari had made significant aerodynamic improvements, enhancing race pace and consistency.
If Ferrari continues this upward trend, Hamilton could finally have a car that matches or surpasses Red Bull’s.
2. Hamilton’s Experience and Mental Strength Remain Unmatched
Even though Mercedes has fallen behind Red Bull in recent years, Hamilton has consistently proven his world-class talent.
Hamilton Is Still a Top-Tier Driver
Even without the best car, Hamilton frequently secured podiums and delivered masterful drives.
For example, in 2023, he finished multiple races in the top three despite driving an underperforming car. This proves that if given a competitive machine, Hamilton is still a championship-caliber driver.
3. Can Hamilton Challenge Max Verstappen?
Since 2021, Max Verstappen and Red Bull have dominated Formula 1. However, Montoya is confident that Hamilton can pose a serious threat if he has a car on par with Verstappen’s.
2021: A Legendary Battle Between Hamilton and Verstappen
The 2021 season remains one of the most thrilling in F1 history, with Hamilton and Verstappen fighting for the title until the final lap of the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. While Hamilton lost under controversial circumstances, he demonstrated that he could still compete at Verstappen’s level.
Red Bull’s Weaknesses and Hamilton’s Opportunity
Despite Red Bull’s current dominance, they are not invincible. Ferrari’s technological advancements and F1’s new budget cap regulations could put pressure on Red Bull.
If Ferrari capitalizes on these factors, Hamilton could surprise the grid and put Verstappen under immense pressure.
4. Can Ferrari Deliver a Championship for Hamilton?
Ferrari has invested heavily in aerodynamics and engine performance, making major upgrades to reduce tire degradation and increase race pace. If they provide Hamilton with a car that is at least equal to Red Bull’s, he has a real chance at winning his eighth championship.
Additionally, Hamilton’s strategic mind and racecraft could be exactly what Ferrari needs to break their championship drought.
Is Hamilton’s Peak Era About to Return?
Hamilton’s career has had ups and downs, but Montoya believes that with a fast car, he can return to his unbeatable form.
If Ferrari delivers on their promises, the 2025 F1 season could become one of the most exciting ever, featuring an intense battle between Hamilton and Verstappen.
