Lewis Hamilton faced several challenges throughout the current season. The 2024 season began with hopes of progressing and toppling the reigning champions. However, the team found themselves in a battle with other competitors, significantly lagging behind the front pack and the Austrian power unit. Despite a disappointing start, Hamilton remains optimistic about the W15 in Suzuka, considering the FP2 session as his best performance this year.
Mercedes has been dealing with issues in the car in high-speed corners for the past two years. With this in mind, the team sought to address these problems during the ongoing campaign. However, they only achieved mediocre success, leading Hamilton to declare this year as the worst start to an F1 season. However, the team is now full of optimism after Hamilton’s positive performances on Friday morning.
The 39-year-old driver was very impressed with the car’s stability in the high-speed corners of the Suzuka International Racing Circuit. Hamilton concluded Friday’s session with a second place in a rain-affected FP2 session, considering it the best session of the year for Mercedes. This sudden change in fortune has boosted Hamilton’s confidence in his chances for Sunday’s race.
Since the introduction of the era of ground effect in F1 cars, the Brackley-based team has faced difficulties. Although they have experienced glimpses of hope, they have not fully overcome the car’s shortcomings and have not understood them. However, Hamilton’s strong performance in the Suzuka FP2 session led him to advise the team not to make any unnecessary changes.
The seven-time champion believes that Mercedes has a solid foundation to build on. Hamilton was pleased with the stability of the car, even with its predicted weaknesses. This led him to instruct the engineers not to make any changes to the car’s setup, as the W15 seems to be in its ideal state.
The qualifying session tomorrow will play a crucial role in determining Hamilton’s final position in the Japanese GP on Sunday. His fans will be present in great numbers to support him during this highly anticipated race.
