Seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton finished only 16th in qualifying for the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix. The Mercedes driver did not survive the first quarter, while his teammate George Russell (with slower tyres) scored the fourth Chrono.
Mercedes has started the new Formula 1 season with question marks. The new car is a far cry from world champion level performance.
Drag last weekend Lewis Hamilton Another third place after the Red Bulls surrendered, but tonight he was pressed again against the facts.
On the highway circuit in Jeddah, Hamilton was unable to make his Mercedes roar. Qualifiers ended quickly with the 16th chrono. After Q1, the top driver had to park his car in the pits.
And that while his new colleague was driving the fourth chrono. George Russell He was no less than 7 tenths faster than Hamilton, on the slower medium tires.
“I’m sorry guys,” said Hamilton.
It’s been 13 years since Lewis Hamilton walked very slowly in his first qualifying session. In Brazil, he only set the 18th fastest time at McLaren.
The last time Hamilton went out in the first quarter was 4 years ago, also in Brazil. The Englishman lost control of his Mercedes and crashed in Interlagos.
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