Lewis Hamilton is settling in well at Ferrari, according to La Gazzetta dello Sport, one of Italy's most respected sports newspapers.
Despite initial reports of discomfort with his pedal setup and a minor incident while testing an older Ferrari single-seater in Barcelona, adjustments have reportedly made the seven-time world champion "immediately feel more comfortable."
As Hamilton embarks on this new chapter, opinions remain divided on how he will perform at Ferrari, especially given his struggles at Mercedes since the introduction of the 'ground effect' regulations. Some speculate that the partnership is driven more by financial incentives than pure racing ambitions.
"If Hamilton can become world champion with Ferrari, it would be the biggest thing ever in Formula 1 from a marketing perspective," F1 legend and former Ferrari driver Gerhard Berger told Auto Motor und Sport.
However, Berger believes the Scuderia has what it takes to be a serious contender this year. "I would put my money on Ferrari this season," the Austrian stated. "I can't say whether it will be Hamilton or Leclerc, or whether it will be the drivers' or constructors' world championship, but they will win a title.
"That is my personal feeling. Ferrari was almost always fast last year, with a few slip-ups," Berger, 65, added. "I trust Fred Vasseur to get rid of the volatility too. It took a while, but I think they are very close."
Berger also dismissed criticism from figures such as Flavio Briatore and Mattia Binotto, who have questioned Ferrari's decision to bring in Hamilton at the expense of Carlos Sainz.
"It was a good decision by Ferrari to sign him," he insists. "And I think Hamilton needs the new motivation.
"He had been in the same team for so long that only a change of scenery would help. For Hamilton, coming fifth is not a result that motivates him, but he will really grit his teeth at Ferrari and could well perform at his best again.
On the other hand, I think he will struggle against Leclerc's speed. It will be a very close call."
Berger also praised team principal Frederic Vasseur, believing his leadership is beginning to bear fruit.
"It was always clear that it would take a year or two for his work to pay off," he said. "Now I have the feeling that it is starting to work.
"I also think it is great that he signed Hamilton. Vasseur will bring Ferrari back to the top."
