Hamilton, a seven-time F1 world champion, was honest post qualification, revealing that he has not dialled into the Scuderia’s team plans just yet. However, there are suggestions that the forecasted rain for Sunday’s race could bring him back into contention.
“Charles (Leclerc) has more experience of course, but I’m building confidence with the car and learning how to unlock its potential,” Hamilton said.
Also Read: Lando Norris takes pole position in season-opening Australian Grand Prix
“Now we will get our heads down and try to find out how we can close the gap. Tomorrow is going to be a challenge, especially as I’ve not driven this car in the wet, but we will be giving it all we can to have a positive first race and be up there.”
Melbourne is anticipating contrasting weather conditions on Sunday, as an overcast warm mornging will make way for a cool change in the late morning, with significant chance of showers.
Lando Norris set a searing final qualifying lap to secure pole position for the race, his first at Melbourne’s Albert Park, and milestone 10th overall, in front of his teammate Oscar Piastri, and a record Saturday crowd of 136,347 at Albert Park.
(With Reuters inputs)
First Published: Mar 15, 2025 3:30 PM IST
