Lewis Hamilton, a seven-time world champion, found himself in a fierce fight with George Russell for a podium position. Hamilton admitted that he was unaware of Russell’s tire strategy. He didn’t know that Russell would switch to the medium tires, which turned out to be a better choice.
In hindsight, Hamilton regretted not staying out on the medium tires himself. He believed they offered superior performance. Despite his efforts, Hamilton couldn’t hold off Russell, who had a half-second advantage with fresher rubber.
‼️Sir Lewis Hamilton asked “take us through those last laps fighting with george for that podium position..”
Lewis : “i didn’t know that…i didn’t know that we were both…i didn’t know that he would be going on to a medium tyre. if i would’ve known that, i would’ve stayed out… pic.twitter.com/axcnhDnmeQ
— sim (@sim3744) June 10, 2024
Lewis Hamilton: “i didn’t know that…i didn’t know that we were both…i didn’t know that he would be going on to a medium tyre. if i would’ve known that, i would’ve stayed out and I would’ve stayed on the medium tyre, the medium tyre was much better. that was amongst so many other…(inaudible)……that was not such a great call and…ultimately i couldn’t keep him behind me he had half a second on me at least with those tyres.”
The Team’s Communication with Lewis Hamilton
In the 2024 Formula 1 season, the Canadian Grand Prix witnessed a dramatic showdown between Mercedes teammates Lewis Hamilton and George Russell. The race unfolded with unexpected twists and strategic decisions that ultimately shaped the outcome.
During the race, the team informed Hamilton that he had a free pit stop opportunity. They also suggested that the soft tires might not last until the end. However, crucially, there was no mention of Russell’s pit stop or the tire offset between the two teammates.
This lack of information impacted Hamilton’s decision-making and contributed to his defeat. The battle between Hamilton and Russell wasn’t just about on-track action. It revealed tensions within the Mercedes team.
Russell, eager to prove himself after earlier setbacks, seized the opportunity to secure his first podium finish for Mercedes. Hamilton, on the other hand, faced disappointment, considering it one of his worst races.
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