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Lewis Hamilton showcased a remarkable comeback at the 2025 Bahrain Grand Prix, transforming a challenging qualifying session into a gratifying race by advancing from ninth to fifth place. In contrast, his teammate Charles Leclerc started strong in second but finished just one spot ahead in fourth.
Adjusting to New Challenges
After the race, Hamilton expressed a renewed optimism, the likes of which he hadn’t shown since his victory in the sprint race in China. This leap forward appears to stem from a deeper understanding of the Ferrari car and the adjustments required to maximize its performance.
Hamilton acknowledged the significant change in driving dynamics he faced with Ferrari, stating, “What’s clear is that, as humans, we really get stuck in our ways. I’ve been with the same team for such a long time and now I’m driving a car that asks for a different approach.” He elaborated on adapting to a new braking system—switching from Carbone Industrie to Brembo brakes, which requires rethinking his braking technique.
“I’ve never had to use engine braking before. This new setup demands that I shift my driving style, and it’s a matter of adjusting my mindset to find the right balance,” he said, reflecting on the learning curve he has undergone. Hamilton noted that his teammate Leclerc finds stability by refining his setup across the race weekend, whereas he has been more volatile, often trailing behind until just before qualifying. He expressed resolve to improve his performance and consistency in future races.
Strategic Maneuvering on Track
In Bahrain, Ferrari adopted a distinct strategy by commencing the race on medium-compound tires, a contrast to the majority of the top 10 runners who utilized used softs. Despite losing two positions initially, Hamilton quickly made his way up by overtaking Carlos Sainz and later by navigating past Yuki Tsunoda and Max Verstappen during the race.
The early race dynamics also showcased Hamilton’s strategic prowess, particularly when he capitalized on the misstep of competitors who pitted right before a safety car period, impacting their race strategy. Between managing his pace and engaging in battles, Hamilton demonstrated an acute awareness of the race’s flow, allowing him to refine his understanding of how to drive the Ferrari effectively.
Nevertheless, Hamilton emphasized the essential need to excel during qualifying rounds, as even minor time discrepancies can significantly hinder a driver’s starting position due to the increasing competitiveness within the field.
Ferrari team principal Frederic Vasseur remarked on the significance of Hamilton’s adaptability and willingness to grow within the new team dynamics. He stressed the necessity for continuous improvement, not just for the car but also for Hamilton’s integration with it. “You won’t replace 12 years of collaboration in two weeks or two races,” Vasseur stated, highlighting the learning process that lies ahead for both the driver and team.
As Hamilton focuses on refining his skills and adapting to the Ferrari, the path ahead may prove challenging, but his determination to understand and extract the car’s potential could pave the way for future success.
Source
www.motorsport.com