Jenson Button urges Lewis Hamilton to keep doing F1 'homework' despite Ferrari simulator concerns

Jenson Button has reminded Lewis Hamilton to complete his F1 "homework" by using Ferrari's simulator, despite Hamilton's recent vow to sideline the tool after a tough Miami weekend.

Hamilton revealed that the Maranello simulator set him on the wrong path, leaving him at a disadvantage to teammate Charles Leclerc during the Sprint weekend's limited practice time. He suggested cutting simulator work from his Montreal preparations — a race he has won seven times but not since 2019 with Mercedes.

Why it matters:

The transition to a new team is notoriously difficult, and simulator use is critical for adapting to different car characteristics. Abandoning it altogether could hinder Hamilton's progress as Ferrari aims to close the gap to frontrunners.

The details:

• Button, Hamilton's former McLaren teammate, told Sky Sports that getting "lost" in the simulator is not an excuse to drop the tool completely.
• He noted Hamilton seems more confident this year after a tough 2024 season, but the last few races have been challenging.
• "Sometimes you can get a little bit lost in the simulator, going down the wrong direction, but you still need to do it — there's homework that needs to be done away from the track," Button said.

Between the lines:

Button's comments highlight a broader challenge for drivers switching teams: balancing simulator time with real-world feedback. While Hamilton's frustration is understandable, Button believes the simulator remains a vital part of preparation — especially at a circuit like Montreal where experience matters.

What's next:

Hamilton is expected to arrive in Montreal with renewed confidence, but whether he sticks to his no-simulator stance remains to be seen. Ferrari will need both drivers fully up to speed if they hope to challenge for wins on a track where Hamilton has historically excelled.