Lewis Hamilton shows disappointment after qualifying sixth at the Azerbaijan GP, citing Ferrari’s unexpected strategy change in Q3 that disadvantaged him.
Lewis Hamilton will start the Azerbaijan Grand Prix from sixth place. The result falls short of the seven-time world champion’s expectations, especially after an encouraging start to qualifying.
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Speaking to Sky Sport UK, Hamilton was frank about his Saturday session. “It was once again a rather poor qualifying. It’s not for lack of trying,” he explained.
The British driver felt comfortable during the early stages of qualifying. “Q1 went quite well, but we struggled a bit more in Q2.”
Hamilton: “Ferrari changed plan in Q3”
The final part of qualifying left Hamilton with some regrets. He revealed that Ferrari altered their original plan for Q3. “When we entered Q3, they changed the plan. Instead of doing two runs, we ended up waiting.”
This also had an additional impact. Hamilton was ahead of Charles Leclerc and therefore could not follow another car to gain a slipstream on Baku’s long high-speed straightaway. “Being in front of Charles meant I had no one ahead to get a slipstream from.” This was a crucial disadvantage on the Baku circuit, where a good slipstream can noticeably improve lap times.
Hamilton acknowledges Mercedes’ superiority
Beyond their Q3 management, Hamilton believes Ferrari lacked the pace to challenge Mercedes. “Anyway, we couldn’t compete with Mercedes. They are simply much faster on the straights. They’ve done a great job.”
The straight-line speed gap could become even more problematic during the race, especially if Hamilton battles directly with a Mercedes-powered car.
The seven-time champion doesn’t expect an easy Sunday. “I think it will be tough to overtake a Mercedes tomorrow. Keeping up with a Mercedes engine on the straight will be difficult.” However, Hamilton has not given up and promises to seize any opportunities the Baku race offers. “I will give everything I have.”
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