After the disqualification in China due to weight issues, Ferrari tried to avoid a repeat in Japan: Lewis Hamilton’s actions leave no room for doubt.
“It must never happen again.” These were Charles Leclerc’s words on Thursday during the Suzuka weekend, referring to what had happened in Shanghai. Ferrari, in fact, left China with a double disqualification, which sparked much discussion, and in Japan, Lewis Hamilton “copied” what others, including Max Verstappen, had done to avoid further weight issues.
One of the reasons behind the penalty received by the Scuderia in the second race of the year was related to the fact that one of the two SF-25s, specifically car number 16, was below the minimum weight limit required by the regulations. Charles Leclerc’s car was actually one kilogram lighter than the 800 kg required by the Federation. A small kilogram that, however, had significant repercussions on the weekend and on Ferrari’s standings.
Lewis Hamilton tries everything at the end of the race
To avoid repeating what happened in Shanghai, Lewis Hamilton tried everything at the end of the Japanese GP. Reviewing the onboard footage from the seven-time Formula 1 world champion’s cool-down lap, it is noticeable how Lewis Hamilton frequently drives on the grass, trying to collect as much weight as possible.
It must be noted that this is a common practice, and many drivers do it at the end of the race. At the same time, it shows how Ferrari was determined to avoid any further issues with the race officials. Given their current performance struggles, the Scuderia cannot afford to return home with zero points. And until they have an SF-25 capable of competing for victories, every small point counts.
