Lewis Hamilton remains optimistic despite finishing third: “We’re getting closer”

Ferrari is closing in on Mercedes—that's the lesson Lewis Hamilton wants to take away from the Chinese Grand Prix qualifying session. Finishing third in qualifying in Shanghai, Lewis Hamilton expressed satisfaction with Ferrari's performance, even though the session wasn't perfect.

The Briton also made a point of congratulating Kimi Antonelli on his pole position. “It's an incredible achievement,” he said. “He took my spot at Mercedes and hit the ground running right from the start. He totally deserves this pole. ” A qualifying session disrupted by the wind Hamilton acknowledged that the weather conditions made the session difficult. “The wind made the car hard to balance. I made a few mistakes and had a big slide on my first lap in Q3.”

Despite everything, the seven-time world champion believes there was still potential. “I was probably a few tenths off if I'd managed to find the right pace.” Ferrari making progress Even though Mercedes retains the advantage, Hamilton believes Ferrari has closed the gap.

“During the break we made a few changes and we learned some things during the Sprint.” The gap remains significant in race pace, however. “According to our numbers, they have a four- to six-tenths advantage.” Under these conditions, beating Mercedes won't be easy.

“Honestly, it will be very difficult. Maybe the strategy or the start can make a difference.” One thing is certain: Hamilton will also have to manage his tires carefully. “I have to avoid pushing too hard to stay with them, otherwise I'll just destroy my tires.”