Former Ferrari chairman Luca Cordero di Montezemolo has offered a measured assessment of the Scuderia’s start to the 2026 Formula 1 season, acknowledging clear progress while insisting the team is still far from championship-winning form.

Ferrari has opened the campaign with three consecutive podium finishes, showing a level of consistency that was missing last year. That improvement has placed the Maranello squad as the closest challenger to Mercedes, even if the gap to the front remains significant.

Montezemolo, who led Ferrari during one of its most successful eras and played a key role in shaping the team’s modern identity, believes the current car shows promise, but not enough to truly compete for titles.

"I’ve seen a good car in the first three races, reliable and consistent, but it doesn’t look like a car capable of winning the championship. It needs power, it needs energy. It will be crucial to see how well the team can develop it," Montezemolo told the 'La Politica Nel Pallone' podcast.

Ferrari is expected to introduce upgrades in the coming races, with particular focus on improving performance through its ADUO system. The aim is to reduce the deficit to Mercedes’ W17 and move closer to the front of the grid, though that step remains a challenging one.

For Montezemolo, the expectations at Ferrari go far beyond regular podium appearances. He stressed that the team must aim higher, especially given the long wait since its last title.

"After so many years, it’s not enough to win a few races or get excited about a podium, you have to win the championship, and hopefully development will deliver a car that can truly fight at the front," he admitted.

Looking ahead, the Italian pointed to the Miami Grand Prix as a key turning point, with the extended break in the calendar offering teams valuable development time.

"In Miami, a new championship will begin for everyone. There’s a month to work, and I hope Ferrari have the ability and strength to develop the car," Montezemolo concluded.