Lewis Hamilton Expresses Frustration with Mercedes Performance
Lewis Hamilton voiced his concerns about the inconsistency of his Mercedes car after a disappointing qualifying session in Australia, marking his worst performance in 14 years.
Qualifying Performance
Hamilton, with a record eight pole positions at Melbourne’s Albert Park, will start the race from 11th place after being eliminated in Q2. Max Verstappen secured pole position, aiming for his 10th victory, with Carlos Sainz alongside him on the front row.
Recent Performances
Hamilton’s struggles in qualifying follow his eighth place in Saudi Arabia and ninth place in Bahrain. He currently trails his teammate George Russell, who has outperformed him 3-0 in one lap this season.
Hamilton’s Comments
Hamilton expressed his frustration with the car’s inconsistency, stating that it affects the team’s performance. He emphasized the need to address various issues with the car to improve competitiveness.
Team Assessment
Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff acknowledged the team’s underwhelming performance and highlighted the need for continuous improvement despite the challenges they face.
Verstappen’s Dominance
Max Verstappen’s pole position streak continued, with his third consecutive pole in Australia. He remains a strong contender for victory in the upcoming race, maintaining his impressive form.
Sainz’s Remarkable Recovery
Carlos Sainz, who underwent emergency surgery recently, expressed his surprise at securing a front-row start. Despite initial challenges, he adapted quickly and feels confident with the car’s performance.
