Importance Score: 40 / 100 🔵
Hamilton Grapples with Performance in Saudi Arabian Grand Prix Qualifying
Seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton expressed frustration after securing only seventh place in qualifying for the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix at the demanding Jeddah Corniche Circuit. The British driver finished behind his teammate, Charles Leclerc, highlighting a challenging weekend where he lacked confidence in his SF-25 car throughout practice sessions. This Formula 1 venue is renowned as one of the season’s most difficult tests for drivers, and Hamilton’s qualifying position reflects his ongoing struggle for pace.
Objective Achieved, But Pace Lacking
Following Friday’s practice runs in Jeddah, Hamilton admitted his primary goal was simply reaching Q3. He narrowly achieved this, progressing to the final qualifying stage. However, the 40-year-old racer was unable to significantly improve his position in Q3. He is set to start the race from seventh on the grid, positioned behind Carlos Sainz, the driver he previously replaced at Ferrari.
“Praying” for Race Day Improvement
Reflecting on another difficult qualifying session with Sky Sports F1, Hamilton stated, “It was challenging, as always, qualifying for me. I’d been nowhere all weekend – 13th, I think in almost every session – so, honestly, I feel grateful to have got to Q3 and P7.”
“Not a spectacular final lap, but have been making advancements throughout the weekend. Needed a stronger lap at the end. But, as I mentioned, I’m just thankful to be there. There’s still considerable opportunity ahead.”
Hopes for Sunday’s Race
When questioned about his optimism for race day improvements, Hamilton responded, “Praying, more like! Attempting to connect with this car on a single lap is proving very difficult for me currently. But we persevere. Where there’s determination, there’s a way. We maintain our push, continue striving, and appreciate the incredible support, so we just keep working diligently.”
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Qualifying Result a Setback
This qualifying outcome will be particularly disappointing for Hamilton, especially after he departed the Bahrain Grand Prix with renewed optimism. He believed insights gained during the Sakhir weekend could contribute to enhancing his qualifying performances.
Leclerc Outperforms Hamilton in Qualifying Head-to-Head
However, the conclusion of Q3 revealed a familiar pattern, mirroring the preceding four qualifying sessions of 2025. Hamilton now trails Leclerc four to one in their season-long qualifying battle.
Championship Standings Reflect Performance Gap
This performance disparity is also evident in the Drivers’ Championship standings. Despite his sprint race victory at the Chinese Grand Prix, Hamilton is currently seven points behind Leclerc, and this gap is anticipated to potentially increase further in Jeddah, should Sunday’s race unfold as predicted.