Lewis Hamilton 'Shocked' by Monza Penalty Amidst 'Volatile' First Ferrari Year

Lewis Hamilton 'Shocked' by Monza Penalty Amidst 'Volatile' First Ferrari Year

Why it matters

Lewis Hamilton faces a significant grid penalty for his first Italian Grand Prix with Ferrari, intensifying focus on a season he describes as "volatile." His candid reflections highlight the profound adjustments and difficulties encountered since his high-profile move.

The details

• Penalty Shock: Hamilton received a five-place grid drop and two penalty points for failing to sufficiently slow under double-waved yellow flags during a reconnaissance lap at the Dutch GP.
  • "I landed back home and then saw that I got this penalty and I was really, really shocked to be honest."
  • He acknowledged lifting but "to their liking, not enough," calling the penalty "pretty hardcore."
  • This setback makes his first Monza GP with Ferrari "challenging," adding pressure to qualify for Q3 and finish in the top five.
• 'Volatile' Ferrari Year: Hamilton characterized his first six months with Ferrari as an "emotional rollercoaster" and "volatile."
  • He noted significant adjustments from both sides, cultural differences, and car issues.
  • Team principal Fred Vasseur reportedly admitted underestimating Hamilton's impact.
  • Despite the difficulties, Hamilton views the tough period as crucial preparation: "The harder it is, the better it can make you."
• Zandvoort Crash: Hamilton revealed his unusual Zandvoort crash was not due to a lack of concentration but a combination of factors.
  • A "downgraded upshift" locked the rear wheels.
  • He was "10cm wider" on the track than the previous lap, combined with spitting rain.
  • The team's supportive deep dive helped understand the incident, which he learned from.

What's next

Hamilton remains motivated to "make up those places" at Monza. He believes the team's "spot on" approach and learnings from Zandvoort will enable a competitive weekend, preparing them for a "positive uphill battle."