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What Could Have Been: Hamilton Reflects on Las Vegas Qualifying Missed Opportunity

Simon Monroy by Simon Monroy
December 4, 2024
in Motorsports
Reading Time: 3 mins read
0
What Could Have Been: Hamilton Reflects on Las Vegas Qualifying Missed Opportunity

Nov 23, 2024; Las Vegas, Nevada, USA; Mercedes AMG Petronas driver Lewis Hamilton (44) celebrates after placing second in the Las Vegas Grand Prix at Las Vegas Circuit. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images

In the glittering lights of the Formula 1 Las Vegas Grand Prix, Lewis Hamilton delivered a stellar drive from 10th on the grid to second place, helping Mercedes secure a dominant one-two finish behind George Russell. Yet, the seven-time world champion couldn’t help but wonder what might have been if his qualifying performance had lived up to his early weekend promise.


“Dominant Pace Meets Qualifying Woes”

Hamilton’s weekend began with promise, topping the time sheets in the first two practice sessions and displaying Mercedes’ raw pace at the Las Vegas Strip Circuit. However, mistakes in the Q3 shootout relegated him to the fifth row, a result that the Briton was quick to shoulder responsibility for.

“If I’d done my job yesterday, it would have been a breeze today,” Hamilton admitted in parc ferme. “But it’s OK. I had fun coming from the back. The team did a fantastic job.”


“A Redemption Drive to Second Place”

Despite starting deep in the pack, Hamilton unleashed blistering race pace to climb through the field with apparent ease, crossing the line in second place. The performance highlighted not only his skill but also Mercedes’ newfound strength at a track where they were untouchable.

“We don’t know why we were so quick this weekend, but that’s the nice part,” Hamilton said. “That’s the best the car has ever felt. I’m grateful to have been part of getting it to that point.”

The ease with which Hamilton cut through the grid begged the question of whether he could have challenged Russell for victory had he started further forward. However, Hamilton waved off such speculation, choosing instead to praise his teammate’s flawless performance.

“[Qualifying] doesn’t really matter, does it? At the end of the day, George did a great job, did everything he was supposed to do, and I’m happy for him.”


“Throwback to the Glory Days”

Hamilton likened the experience of his charge through the field to his karting days, recalling the thrill of battling his way to the front.

“It felt very much like my old days at Rye House, starting at the back and coming through,” he reminisced. “It was great.”


“A New Benchmark for Mercedes”

For Hamilton, the race wasn’t just about personal redemption; it also marked a high point for Mercedes in what has been a rollercoaster season. With a perfectly balanced car, he acknowledged the strides the team has made.

“We got a really good balance in the car today. It felt a lot better than it was yesterday, particularly Q3, but yeah, just phenomenal for the team.”


“Looking Ahead”

While the Las Vegas GP offered a tantalizing glimpse of what Mercedes could achieve when firing on all cylinders, Hamilton’s focus will undoubtedly shift to ensuring consistency over the final two races of the season. As the Constructors’ Championship slips beyond Mercedes’ reach, the team will be aiming to carry their newfound momentum into Qatar and Abu Dhabi.

For now, though, Hamilton can celebrate another commanding performance, even if the “what if” of qualifying lingers in his mind.

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