Lewis Hamilton's challenging first season with Ferrari is being significantly amplified by the fiercely competitive F1 qualifying grid, widening the perceived gap to teammate Charles Leclerc.
Why it matters
Hamilton is currently without a grand prix podium, notably trailing Leclerc 10-4 in qualifying sessions with an average pace deficit of 0.241 seconds. This seemingly small gap is proving disastrous due to the incredibly tight field, often pushing Hamilton out of Q3 by minimal margins.
The big picture
After a disappointing session in Hungary, Hamilton expressed his frustration, humorously suggesting Ferrari "should look at signing another driver." However, former F1 driver Perry McCarthy argues that Hamilton is more a victim of circumstance than a decline in form.
The details
- Viciously Compact Field: McCarthy highlights that the current F1 grid is so condensed that even a slight imperfection, like 0.2 seconds off the pace, can mean missing out on Q3.
- Team and Driver Factors: He notes a combination of Hamilton's own errors and team issues (e.g., traffic, timing) contributing to his struggles.
- Hamilton's Mindset: Despite being 40, Hamilton retains a fiercely competitive drive. His frustration stems from feeling slightly off, especially if he perceives it as his own fault.
What they're saying
McCarthy defended Hamilton against online critics, stating, "If you are 0.2s off Charles Leclerc in qualifying, that 0.2s across a three-mile track, so he's not exactly an old lady out there." He emphasizes that such a small deficit doesn't reflect a significant drop in skill but rather the intense competition.