Hamilton’s Breakthrough in Barcelona: Cracking the Code on F1 Qualifying Woes

Lewis Hamilton optimistic he has resolved Formula 1 qualifying issues following progress in Barcelona

"We'll see with time. I believe we've figured something out. The next step is to expand on it."

Lewis Hamilton is convinced he's made a significant breakthrough with his F1 qualifying speed, following a pivotal moment at the Spanish Grand Prix.

During the weekend in Barcelona, it marked only the second occasion this year where Hamilton outperformed George Russell.

Hamilton transformed his third-place start into his debut podium finish of the season, signaling Mercedes' ongoing improvement.

Currently, Hamilton trails Russell with a score of 2-8 in their qualifying matchups.

In a conversation with a handful of journalists, including those from Crash.net while in Austria, Hamilton disclosed that extensive research has been conducted to understand his issues during Saturday races, attributing the difficulties primarily to the tyres.

"He emphasized the extensive amount of analysis involved. "I've sought an abundance of details from the team concerning areas of improvement and our shortcomings. It primarily deals with the tyres, among other factors. We're focused on enhancing our procedures from one session to the next, especially as we approach qualifying, where things tend to shift slightly."

"It's clear the vehicle has shed some weight, and we're utilizing DRS significantly more. Only time will reveal the outcome. I believe we've made a breakthrough. The focus now is on further development."

Hamilton believes the challenging maneuverability of the Mercedes W15 has intensified his struggles during qualifying sessions.

The seven-time world champion characterized this year's Mercedes as being "extremely precarious."

"He also mentioned that the car's aerodynamics are precariously balanced. Achieving equilibrium between the aerodynamic and mechanical aspects is challenging. Adjusting the aerodynamic balance for both high and low speeds is particularly tough."

The importance of tyre temperature and the way out laps are executed is crucial. For instance, in Montreal, the Ferraris failed to advance past Q2, a situation that can be attributed solely to tyre temperature despite having a competitive car, evidenced by their victory in the preceding race.

"This demonstrates that getting the tires to function properly and avoiding overworking them is challenging. They appear to be more susceptible than in any previous season I can recall."

Hamilton is currently in eighth place in this year's Formula 1 drivers' standings, trailing Russell by 11 points.

Discover More

Recent Updates

Recent Updates

Site Navigation

Crash.Net

©1999-2024 Crash Media Group

Copying or reproducing text, photos, or illustrations in whole or in part is strictly prohibited.