Lewis Hamilton: "We're not the fastest, but we have a solid starting point"

Lewis Hamilton: “We’re not the fastest, but we have a solid starting point” – Japan GP practice. Lewis Hamilton is happy with the first day on track at Suzuka.

A positive Friday. It’s not the first time this season that Ferrari starts off convincingly, but on a track like Suzuka, it carries more concrete and meaningful value due to its characteristics.

Lewis Hamilton recorded the fourth-fastest time in the second free practice session of the Japanese Grand Prix, just over four tenths behind Oscar Piastri‘s best time of 1’28″114 (already faster than the 2024 pole time).

“It was a good day. This track is wonderful. You never stop being amazed when driving here. And there’s also an incredible crowd this weekend. It’s the first time I see the support they give to Ferrari,” said the British driver at the end of Free Practice 2 in Suzuka.

“In general, the sessions went well. Obviously, it’s a bit worrying to see the crash at Turn 1. I’m glad Doohan is okay.”

Today, the wind had a significant impact on driving, but Lewis Hamilton still felt good behind the wheel of the SF-25. Ferrari didn’t seem the fastest on track, but the baseline setup satisfied the 7-time world champion.

“There’s a bit of wind coming from one side. We had a headwind through the esses and at that moment the track was quick. But the feeling was great. We completed the entire program. We need to improve the performance. We’re not the fastest, but I think it’s a good starting point.” – the British driver pointed out at the end of the second free practice session for the Japanese Grand Prix.

“I didn’t focus too much on what others were doing. I tried to focus on learning as much as possible, to keep improving with the team. Weekend after weekend, I feel more and more comfortable with the environment and the car, remembering everything in the cockpit and the settings.” – he pointed out.

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“I’m starting to better understand and feel the setup changes we can make. For example, between the two sessions, I began reaching the point where I can steer the car in the right direction, knowing which tools I have available to improve it. So I feel comfortable and I expect this to continue in the coming races.” – the seven-time Formula 1 world champion concluded.