Hamilton Optimises Driving Style For Improved Performance In Ferrari SF-25 Car

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Lewis Hamilton has expressed confidence in understanding Ferrari's SF-25 car, following his best performance with the team at the Bahrain Grand Prix. He secured fifth place at Sakhir, just behind Charles Leclerc, surpassing his previous seventh-place finish at the Japanese Grand Prix. This result was a positive development after qualifying ninth for the fourth race of the season.

Hamilton acknowledged that adapting to a new driving style and settings was necessary due to the differences in the Ferrari car compared to his previous experiences. "I think what's clear is, us as humans, I guess we get really stuck in our ways," Hamilton told Sky Sports after Sunday's race. "I think I've been driving a certain style and a certain way with the same team for such a long time, and I've moved to a new car and it requires a different driving style and settings."

The seven-time world champion mentioned using engine braking and different brakes, which were not part of his previous routines. He is gradually getting accustomed to these changes. "This car just requires a much different driving style so I'm adjusting to that and I think I am slowly getting it into my head," he added.

Currently, Hamilton holds 25 points in the drivers' championship standings, placing him seventh. Eight of these points came from winning the sprint race in China. Meanwhile, Leclerc stands fifth with 32 points. As they prepare for the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix this weekend, Hamilton plans to adopt some strategies from Leclerc's approach.

Hamilton observed that Leclerc maintains a consistent setup throughout the weekend, which he aims to emulate. "I think what's clear is that Charles starts with a setup and he stays with it pretty much all weekend," Hamilton said. He admitted being far from Leclerc's pace last weekend but intends to simplify his approach moving forward.

He plans to start next week on firmer ground without deviating too much from his initial setup. "I've got to just make it easier for myself," he stated. By applying what he's learned about how the car performs best, Hamilton hopes for improved qualifying results and an overall better weekend.

Hamilton remains optimistic about implementing these insights in upcoming races. If successful, he believes this could lead to more competitive performances on track.