Hamilton optimistic despite poor qualifying in Japan

Lewis Hamilton expressed optimism despite a middling qualifying session at the Japan Grand Prix dominated by Red Bull, highlighting the improved performance of his Mercedes Formula One car.

The seven-time world champion, who will depart Mercedes for Ferrari at the end of the season, acknowledged frustrations with reliability issues in recent years, including a retirement from the last race in Melbourne due to engine failure. However, Hamilton noted significant progress with his car’s performance, describing it as the best it has felt in over three years.

“It’s been night and day difference over the weekend so far, just in terms of how comfortable I felt in the car,” said Hamilton, who qualified in seventh place, trailing pace-setter Max Verstappen by 0.569 seconds.

Despite his relatively lower qualifying position, Hamilton highlighted the improved handling of his car, particularly praising its balance at a challenging circuit like Suzuka. He also noted that he out-qualified his teammate George Russell for the first time this season, with Russell finishing in ninth place.

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While acknowledging Red Bull’s dominance in recent years, Hamilton emphasized the importance of Mercedes continuing to refine their performance to remain competitive.

“It’s been really, really hard to get the set-up right, and it’s been so far out each time. In some places, it just felt like nothing we could do,” Hamilton remarked. “This weekend it’s much more in the sweet spot so I hope that continues in the following races, and then we’ve just got to add performance.”

Hamilton’s optimistic outlook underscores his confidence in Mercedes’ ability to overcome challenges and improve their competitiveness as the season progresses.