The seven-time world champion ended up in a somewhat unimpressive fourth position in the last Formula 1 race before the summer hiatus, unable to put a stop to Max Verstappen’s dominant performance. However, he managed to stay ahead of his competitors and even nabbed an extra point for clocking the fastest lap, thanks to a late pitstop for new tyres.
What is troubling for Mercedes though, is Hamilton’s observation of the persistent issue with the F1 car bouncing throughout the race. This issue has been a constant nuisance for the team since they transitioned to ground-effect vehicles.
Mercedes bore the brunt of the ‘porpoising’ phenomenon at the commencement of the previous season, and it continues to be a hurdle as they strive to optimize performance from their ‘zero-pod’ concept.
Mid-season, Mercedes significantly revamped their F1 car design, yet Hamilton’s comments about the car reverting to last year’s bouncing problem has raised some eyebrows.
In a discussion with Sky Sports F1, Hamilton shared his thoughts about the race, “The race was pretty uneventful, there wasn’t much action. I struggled to keep up with the cars in front. The biggest issue we have is with the rear end, and we also experienced significant bouncing this weekend, reminiscent of last year.
“Towards the end, I was maintaining a few seconds’ gap from the Ferrari, but couldn’t bridge it any further. However, clocking the fastest lap was a plus point, thanks to a significant lead over the car behind. It was quite windy, which made the driving conditions challenging and keeping the car on the track was difficult.”
Hamilton later elaborated that the bouncing problem was a constant throughout the Spa lap. He mentioned that Mercedes would look into the matter and try to come up with a solution before the next race post-summer break.
He added, “The team is currently unaware of what’s causing the bouncing. This is a concern for me, but we will go through the data this week and try to figure out a way forward before the next race. At this point, I can’t provide further information. I know what I need, and I’m hoping we get it soon.”
Hamilton’s fourth place and the bonus point for the fastest lap has narrowed the gap to Fernando Alonso to just one point in the race for third place in the F1 world drivers’ championship, behind both Red Bull drivers.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Lewis Hamilton Mercedes bouncing issue
What position did Lewis Hamilton end up in the last F1 race before the summer break?
Hamilton ended up in a somewhat unimpressive fourth position in the last Formula 1 race before the summer hiatus.
What was Hamilton’s concern during the race?
Hamilton reported the persistent issue with the F1 car bouncing throughout the race, a problem that has been plaguing the Mercedes team.
What is the ‘zero-pod’ concept mentioned in the context?
The ‘zero-pod’ concept refers to a specific design approach in the construction of the F1 car. Mercedes has been trying to extract optimum performance from their car designed based on this concept.
What are the team’s next steps to address the bouncing issue?
Hamilton mentioned that Mercedes would look into the matter and try to come up with a solution before the next race after the summer break.
Where does Hamilton stand in the F1 world drivers’ championship after this race?
Hamilton’s fourth place and the bonus point for the fastest lap has narrowed the gap to Fernando Alonso to just one point in the race for third place in the F1 world drivers’ championship, behind both Red Bull drivers.
More about Lewis Hamilton Mercedes bouncing issue
- Hamilton’s comments on the race and the bouncing issue
- Details about Mercedes’ ‘zero-pod’ concept
- Current standings in F1 World Drivers’ Championship
- Insights on ‘porpoising’ in F1
5 comments
Oh man! Hamilton and the bouncing problem again… thought they’d have fixed it by now. Not lookin’ good for Mercedes 🙁
whys mercedes always got these tech issues?? hamilton deserves better!! Go hamilton!
despite the setbacks, hamilton still got the fastest lap! proves he’s one of the best. I hope they fix the bouncing soon…
I’ve been following F1 for years, and it’s pretty unusual to see a top team like Mercedes having such persistent issues. Hang in there, Lewis!
Anyone else thinks its high time Merc got their act together? if it continues like this Red bull’s gonna have a field day…