Lewis Hamilton has shown signs of performance improvement during the Canadian Grand Prix, achieving his best qualifying position since the Chinese Grand Prix, where he finished fifth. Despite this positive development, Hamilton remains cautious, emphasizing that he doesn’t view it as a breakthrough, but rather a continuation of his adaptation to new dynamics at Ferrari.
After qualifying, Hamilton expressed that while the team had a more stable performance than at previous races, he didn’t feel it was a significant turning point. “It feels the same,” he stated, reflecting on the adjustments he has made while navigating his first season with Ferrari. He highlighted that consistent progress was crucial, as previous races had been hampered by various car issues, such as problems with the floor or rear wing that negatively affected downforce.
Hamilton credited much of the recent improvement to his own driving adjustments rather than modifications to the car itself. He noted that the car behaves differently from what he was accustomed to, especially in low-speed corners, requiring a strategic shift in his driving style. He reiterated that while there were no major upgrades to the car, the team is continually working together to find incremental improvements.
Ferrari’s focus this season has been somewhat conservative regarding updates, which Hamilton believes may delay their ability to compete effectively for race wins. He mentioned that the team is working on a suspension change to improve their aerodynamic platform, a critical area of focus given the upcoming developments for future seasons.
Hamilton’s understanding of the broader picture is evident as he considers the balance between current performance and future ambitions. He remains optimistic about competing for second place in the constructors’ championship, but his primary goal is to develop a car capable of winning next year.
This situation reflects the complexities that come with changing teams, where patience and collaboration can yield long-term benefits. Hamilton’s commitment to adapting his driving style and collaborating with his engineers illustrates a proactive approach to overcoming challenges, and it shows promise for improved results as the season progresses.