Hamilton to face fierce battle from Ferrari in 2019 F1 World Championship

Lewis Hamilton is facing one of the toughest tests of his career as the new F1 season approaches.

That’s according to Sky Sports F1 commentator Martin Brundle, who envisages a fierce battle for the World Championship when the season kicks off in Melbourne on March 17. Hamilton won his fifth title in 2018, becoming the joint second most successful driver of all time behind record holder Michael Schumacher. But while Brundle expects the 33-year-old to be back amongst it on the podium again this year, he warns that Hamilton will face stiff competition from Ferrari. “We’re in for a great season,” said Brundle, speaking at the Sky Sports F1 launch event, which saw the network take over a petrol station High Wycombe, offering a free tank to fans ahead of the season-starter in Melbourne. “Lewis Hamilton has the stamina and the speed for a season-long challenge for the world title but Ferrari looks immensely fast.  “Vettel and Leclerc have been the pace setters in pre-season testing – they might just be the team to beat.” Hamilton and Vettel have long enjoyed a rivalry, but it was the Brit who got the better of his opponent last year to move one ahead of the German in all-time World Championship crowns.