Lewis Hamilton described his first Ferrari podium as his 'biggest challenge' after a strong third-place finish in the Chinese Grand Prix. The seven-time world champion achieved his record-extending 203rd career podium but first since November 2024, ending a 16-month drought that stretched back to his Mercedes days.

Hamilton surged from third on the grid to lead briefly before finishing third in a battle with teammate Charles Leclerc. The 41-year-old admitted the podium proved harder to achieve than many victories throughout his career, saying he 'had to bide my time' after a difficult debut season with Ferrari that saw them finish fourth in the standings.

Ferrari's improved form in the new regulations has made them Mercedes' closest challengers, with Hamilton appearing rejuvenated. He acknowledged Mercedes' current advantage of 'four or five tenths' in race trim but expressed confidence in Ferrari's ability to close the gap. With his podium drought broken, Hamilton believes victory with Ferrari is 'more in sight than ever before' as the sport heads to Suzuka for the Japanese Grand Prix.