Lewis Hamilton expressed excitement after hitting impressive speeds during the Las Vegas night practice, despite challenging conditions. The Mercedes driver highlighted the fun and the intensity of the circuit, noting the team’s positive outlook for the upcoming sessions.
Catch up quick:
– Lewis Hamilton enjoyed a high-speed night session in Las Vegas, finishing ninth in FP2 after an earlier session was canceled.
– Track issues caused FP1 to be abandoned, but repairs allowed for a full second practice where Hamilton completed 42 laps.
– Hamilton and teammate George Russell both noted the circuit’s high speeds and the importance of race pace for the weekend.
Go deeper:
After a hiccup in FP1 with a loose water valve cover disrupting the session, the Mercedes team bounced back in FP2, with Hamilton embracing the thrill of the Vegas track. The night conditions and a slippery surface added to the challenge, but didn’t dampen Hamilton’s spirits as he clocked serious speeds and had “so much fun.”
Despite the setback, the team managed to get valuable track time in the extended session. Hamilton’s focus was not just on the enjoyment but also on the technical aspects, acknowledging the car’s balance and the close competition on similar tires.
George Russell, Hamilton’s teammate, also had a positive take on the day, despite finishing 12th. He pointed out the circuit’s unique characteristics, the spectacular nature of night racing, and the evolving track conditions that resembled “driving on ice” in the early laps.
Both drivers highlighted the potential tire degradation issues due to the new track surface and cooler temperatures, with a low downforce setup contributing to sliding through corners. They stressed the significance of qualifying positions and managing tire wear for the race.
As the team prepares for the next sessions, Russell looks forward to some rest, while Hamilton is ready to tackle the challenges ahead, with both drivers optimistic about their race pace potential. Keep an eye on this space for more updates as the F1 Las Vegas weekend unfolds.