Will Hamilton Break His Unwanted F1 Record in Mexico?

Lewis Hamilton, starting third at the Mexican Grand Prix, has a strong chance to finally secure his first Ferrari podium. This would allow him to shed an unenviable record: accumulating the most championship points in F1 history without a single podium finish in a season. A top-three finish in any of the remaining five races would see this 'horror record' revert to Felipe Massa (2011).

With 142 points this season and no podiums, Hamilton currently surpasses the Brazilian's previous high of 118 points. Throughout his illustrious career, Hamilton had always achieved at least one podium finish in every season. His 19th season in F1, coincidentally with Ferrari, now threatens to be his first without a trophy.

Hamilton: “I Finally Feel Like I’m Getting the Hang of It”

However, a turnaround appears imminent. After securing third and fourth in Austin, Ferrari celebrated its best qualifying result of the season in Mexico, with second and third place finishes. This achievement comes despite the team not introducing any major updates. "We only worked on minor details, but these are now making the difference," explains Leclerc.

Hamilton appears relieved. "Charles and I have been working together to better understand the car. I finally feel like I'm getting the hang of it," the Briton remarked. Ferrari has made particular strides in tire wear and traction.

The strategy is clear: both Ferrari drivers aim to attack McLaren star Lando Norris at the start. "I have nothing to lose, he does," Hamilton announced. Leclerc, however, urged caution: "I'm starting on the dirty side, which could be tricky."

One Unwanted Record Replaced by Another

If Hamilton achieves a breakthrough in Mexico, it would be more than just a statistical correction. It would mark an emotional comeback after months of frustration and perhaps the moment when the record champion's red era finally begins.

However, this would also mean Hamilton becomes the Ferrari driver who took the longest to achieve his first podium in red. No other driver in the storied history of the Scuderia who eventually reached the podium took longer to do so.