Daijiworld Media Network - Montreal
Montreal, May 23: Seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton said a major change to his preparation routine played a key role in his best qualifying performance of the season so far, after securing fifth place in Sprint Qualifying for the Canadian Grand Prix.
Hamilton revealed that ahead of the weekend he chose to step away from Ferrari’s simulator work and instead focused on detailed data analysis and direct setup work with his engineers. He said the decision quickly paid off at the Circuit Gilles Villeneuve, where he delivered a strong and consistent performance throughout the session.
The British driver noted that the car felt competitive from the first practice session, and small adjustments made ahead of qualifying helped improve balance and performance. He also outqualified his teammate Charles Leclerc for the first time since the Chinese Grand Prix earlier in the season.
Hamilton said the changes in approach allowed him to concentrate more on physical preparation and deeper technical understanding of the car, which improved his overall feel and confidence on track. He added that the experience reinforced his belief that the revised method of working could be beneficial for the rest of the season.
Despite a strong start in SQ1 and SQ2, Hamilton ultimately finished behind the McLaren and Mercedes drivers but said he was pleased to be back “in the fight” at the front of the field.
Teammate Leclerc, however, struggled during Sprint Qualifying, particularly with braking stability. He said issues with confidence under braking significantly affected his lap performance and that the team needs to investigate the problem ahead of the main race.
Leclerc will line up alongside Hamilton in fifth and sixth positions respectively, with McLaren drivers Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri securing strong starting positions ahead of them.
Leclerc added that while the overall car performance felt reasonable, resolving the braking issue would be crucial to remain competitive in the race.