Hamilton Ready to Be 'Sacrificial Lamb' for Leclerc in Italian GP Qualifying

Lewis Hamilton has confirmed he is "happy" to be a "sacrificial lamb" in Italian Grand Prix qualifying if Ferrari asks him to aid Charles Leclerc. Hamilton faces a grid penalty, making Leclerc Ferrari's primary hope at Monza.

Why it matters

Hamilton's five-place grid penalty from Zandvoort means his qualifying position will be less impactful. Leclerc, showing strong pace (P2 in FP3, 0.021s behind Lando Norris), could benefit significantly from a strategic tow to challenge for pole on Ferrari's home ground.

The tow tactic

• Monza's unique challenge: Long straights make slipstreams (tows) highly effective for speed gains.
• Past use: Ferrari has historically used this tactic, with Kimi Räikkönen and Felipe Massa employing it.
• Ferrari's option: Team boss Fred Vasseur could activate this if both drivers reach Q3.

Hamilton's stance

"It can be beneficial, but often one person had to be sacrificed for it," Hamilton stated. "But if it meant getting Charles there, then I would be happy to play that role."

Other contenders

Carlos Sainz, driving for Williams, also showed strong form (P3 in practice), adding another element to the qualifying battle.