Lewis Hamilton's Qualifying Errors Highlight Key Pattern in Data

Lewis Hamilton has faced significant challenges in the 2024 F1 season, particularly in qualifying, where teammate George Russell has consistently outperformed him. Despite the seven-time World Champion’s pedigree, Lewis Hamilton has struggled to adapt to the Mercedes W15’s characteristics, leading to repeated execution errors in critical moments.

Hamilton’s qualifying numbers against Russell might suggest substantial gaps, but the reality is more nuanced. The issues stem from his inability to execute perfect laps under pressure and a mismatch between his driving style and the W15’s engineering design. The car’s sharp front end and limited rear grip, coupled with tyre overheating, have further exacerbated the problem.

Key Races Highlighting Lewis Hamilton’s Struggles

1. Las Vegas GP
   Despite Mercedes dominating, Hamilton qualified only P10 after errors in Q3. A lock-up on his first attempt and a slide at Turn 3 on his second cost him valuable tenths. Hamilton admitted he should have been on pole or P2.
2. Bahrain GP
   In the season opener, Hamilton managed P9 compared to Russell’s P3. A handling error in Turns 6 and 7 and a mistake at the final corner cost him crucial time.
3. Canadian GP
   On a competitive circuit, Hamilton ended Q3 in P7, trailing Russell’s pole position. A late mistake in the final metres cost him three-tenths of a second.
4. Austrian GP
   Close competition in Austria saw Hamilton lose out due to errors at Turns 3 and 4. Aggression in the final corner failed to recover lost time, leaving him P5 to Russell’s P3.
5. Chinese GP
   Hamilton’s Q1 shocker left him P18 after an apex miss on the back straight. Meanwhile, Russell advanced to Q3 and secured P8.
6. Italian GP
   Small errors at Monza’s Ascari chicane and the Parabolica cost Hamilton more time, leading to a subpar result.
7. USA and Azerbaijan GPs
   In Austin, Hamilton exited in Q1 due to braking issues at Turn 12. In Azerbaijan, his lower-downforce setup disadvantaged him in Sector 2, while Russell capitalized for a stronger finish.

Underlying Issues

Hamilton’s struggles trace back to the W15’s design, which doesn’t align with his driving preferences. The car’s sharp front end, limited rear grip, and tendency to overheat tyres in final sectors clash with his style of aggressive corner entry and controlled exits. This misalignment explains much of the gap to Russell, though Hamilton’s execution errors remain a factor.

While Russell’s adaptability has given him the edge, Hamilton’s challenges highlight the importance of car compatibility in F1. Despite these setbacks, Hamilton’s ability to recover and adapt will be crucial as the season progresses.