Hamilton plays down Madring filming-day laps as Ferrari targets strong Spanish Grand Prix weekend

Lewis Hamilton is looking forward to the challenge of Formula 1's newest circuit as Ferrari prepares for the Spanish Grand Prix. He already drove at Madring during a filming day in July, but he does not expect that experience to provide any significant advantage. Hamilton said it was very dusty, there was almost no grip and the cars were not driving flat out, so the main thing he took away is knowing which way the track goes. He added that the simulator is much more useful in terms of preparation and helps shorten the learning curve, and described the circuit as massively challenging, which he likes.

Hamilton also reflected on Monza and the discussions held since the race with Ferrari team principal Fred Vasseur and teammate Charles Leclerc. He said he spoke to Vasseur on Monday and had a really positive discussion, and that while they can sometimes have different opinions, they come together at the end of the day and find a way forward. He and Leclerc also sat down face to face, were open and honest, cleared things up and moved on, with both wanting to win and do the best possible job for the team.

Hamilton stressed that his focus is on maximising the team's results, saying it is about executing in a way that gives Ferrari the best possible result. He said the team's focus has to be on itself, on being consistent and on executing the best possible weekend every time. He added that he absolutely believes Ferrari has everything it needs to win, that the team has made good progress this year, and that he trusts the steps being taken and trusts Vasseur. His conclusion was that Ferrari just has to keep pushing and moving forward.