Lewis Hamilton has expressed his deep sadness after a freak incident during the Canadian Grand Prix, where he hit a groundhog, significantly impacting his race performance. The seven-time world champion, driving for Ferrari, revealed that the incident occurred early in the race, affecting the car's aerodynamics and ultimately contributing to his disappointing sixth-place finish.
The Groundhog Impact: A Racer's Nightmare
Starting from fifth on the grid, Hamilton had a promising start. However, around Lap 9, disaster struck as he collided with a groundhog on the track. These animals are common at the Circuit Gilles Villeneuve, but this encounter had serious consequences. According to Hamilton, the impact caused significant damage to the floor of his Ferrari, resulting in a loss of 20 points of downforce, which translated to approximately half a second per lap.
Hamilton's Reaction and Technical Difficulties
"I was feeling pretty decent until then," Hamilton told Sky Sports F1. "I got a good start, held position, and I was managing the tyres well. I was feeling optimistic. I didn't see it happen, but I heard I hit a groundhog. That's devastating because I love animals and I'm so sad about it. It's horrible. It's never happened to me before."
The damage wasn't the only challenge Hamilton faced. He also reported brake issues later in the race, compounding his difficulties. The team's strategy also came under scrutiny after an extended first pit stop placed him behind slower traffic.
Ferrari's Struggles and the Need for Upgrades
Hamilton's teammate, Charles Leclerc, finished fifth, further highlighting Ferrari's struggles at the Canadian Grand Prix. Leclerc also questioned Ferrari's strategy during the race. Hamilton emphasized the need for upgrades to improve the car's performance. Despite the setbacks, Hamilton expressed gratitude for finishing the race, considering the various issues he encountered.
This unexpected incident serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of motorsport and the challenges drivers face beyond just speed and skill. Hamilton's love for animals adds a poignant layer to the story, making it a truly unfortunate event for the British driver.