Mercedes had another challenging weekend at Monza, facing a formidable Ferrari team that proved to be a step ahead. The W14, unfortunately, emerged as the third-fastest car on the circuit. This article aims to critically analyze Lewis Hamilton’s performance during the race and shed light on the difficulties he faced.
The Qualifying Struggles
Hamilton’s recent qualifying sessions have proven to be challenging, with the seven-time champion starting at unfavorable positions. In both Zandvoort and Monza, he began in 13th and 8th place, respectively. Although Hamilton managed to make up ground during the races and secure decent points, Mercedes failed to keep up with Red Bull’s pace-setting performance. Hamilton himself acknowledged this issue, stating, “I’ve just got to do better in qualifying, so it’s not such a difficult day.”
Hamilton openly expressed his dissatisfaction with the current state of Mercedes’ car. He acknowledged that the W14 was the third-fastest car during the race, admitting it was painful for the team. The desire for greater speed and performance was palpable as he added, “We wish we were quicker. But we’re just counting down the days until February.” These remarks highlight the need for Mercedes to make significant improvements to their car before the next season.
Tire Strategy and Doubts
In an attempt to gain an advantage, Hamilton opted for an offset starting tire strategy at Monza, opting for the harder compound alongside two other drivers. However, his race was not without doubts and concerns. After a surprisingly early stop for mediums on lap 27, Hamilton questioned the decision, expecting to stay out for several more laps. He even expressed uncertainty about whether the mediums would last until the end of the race, saying, “Now we’re screwed, I don’t know how these tyres are going to last.”
Despite the initial doubts and concerns, Hamilton demonstrated his skill in tire management and drove his way to an impressive sixth-place finish. He strategically navigated past Fernando Alonso, Oscar Piastri (despite a contact and subsequent penalty), Lando Norris, and Alex Albon. Hamilton’s ability to take care of his tires, close the gap, and engage in exhilarating battles showcases his exceptional racing prowess.
Lewis Hamilton’s struggles at Monza reflect the broader challenges faced by the Mercedes team. The difficulties in qualifying and the limitations of the W14 have hindered Hamilton’s performance. However, his ability to adapt to adverse situations and drive skillfully allowed him to secure valuable championship points. As Mercedes works towards improvements for the upcoming season, Hamilton’s determination and skills will undoubtedly continue to shine on the racetrack.
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