Lewis Hamilton Points to Corner Balance as Key to Mercedes’ 2024 Formula 1 Revival
Formula 1 News: As the Formula 1 season reaches its ninth round at the Canadian Grand Prix, Lewis Hamilton has highlighted the importance of achieving balance through corners as the crucial factor for Mercedes to bridge the gap with the leading teams. The seven-time Formula 1 champion believes that mastering this aspect will be vital for the German marque to contend with its rivals and secure a podium finish.
Currently, Mercedes lies fourth in the Constructors’ Championship, with zero podiums in eight rounds, a far cry from its usual dominance. However, Hamilton commends the team’s relentless work ethic, which has enabled them to edge closer to the leaders. “The car’s continuing to improve, I think everyone’s taking a step closer to the Red Bulls, and I think that’s been really positive,” Hamilton said.
Hamilton, who will join Ferrari in 2025, expressed his admiration for the team’s morale, saying, “Everyone back at the factory, resilient, everyone focused and head down, morale’s great, hoping we can get closer to these guys and compete at the front.” He is confident that a first top-three finish this term is within reach, particularly with the upgraded front wing he will use this weekend.
The Briton believes that achieving a consistent balance during each corner phase is still an area where Mercedes lags behind its rivals. “The biggest improvement for this year has been ride quality and getting the car lower, which is what others have been able to do,” he explained. “Then stability on entry of corners, the car is far more predictable than it ever was, and more stable. But through corner balance is where we’ve been lacking, where others have taken a big step, so that’s what we’re trying to work on.“
Teammate George Russell’s Perspective
Teammate George Russell echoed Hamilton’s sentiments, saying, “We saw in Monaco how close it is on a slow track. I hope that Monaco was a small turning point for us.” Russell is optimistic about the potential wet weather this weekend, which could provide an opening for Mercedes to close the gap.
While Russell acknowledges that Mercedes hasn’t yet experienced a “breakthrough” moment, he is convinced that the team has discovered a clearer direction in recent weeks. He admits, however, that he can’t predict “when that will be reflected in results.“
As the Formula 1 calendar moves forward, Mercedes will be keen to address its corner balance issues and capitalize on any opportunities that arise. With Hamilton’s optimism and Russell’s positivity, the team is poised to make a push for the top three in the Formula 1 standings.
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