Lewis Hamilton is convinced: the young Formula 1 drivers are more cautious

The race in Malaysia got off to a late start; initially, the Grand Prix stars and all the spectators had to wait 40 minutes because heavy rain had delayed the start procedure. The start was further delayed by software issues, and eventually everyone set off on intermediate tyres. The question of just how disappointed the drivers were that they hadn’t started on the blue-marked wet tyres – which disperse significantly more water – was the talk of the Singapore paddock.

Lewis Hamilton emphasised: “The FIA officials did their best.”

Lewis Hamilton was also asked about this. The seven-time world champion from the Ferrari team said: “I was really looking forward to a wet race. When the rain started, I thought to myself: ‘Yeah, this is going to be fun. And we headed to the starting grid. But the spray was very heavy, and after the start was delayed further, I didn’t get the battles with Max Verstappen and Kimi Antonelli that I’d been looking forward to.”

“But I have absolutely no concerns about how the officials handled things; they did their best to ensure our safety. And the software issue was unforeseeable. I feel they handled the whole thing as well as they possibly could,” assured the record-holding Grand Prix winner, before nevertheless offering some mild criticism.

A question of the Formula 1 generation? An interesting statement from Lewis Hamilton

“Rain races aren’t what they used to be, that much is certain. I’ve experienced some great races, like in the rain back in 2008. But back then we also had more opportunities to test. We had better wet tyres, which were constantly being developed. And I love driving in the rain. I think the people organising the whole thing are becoming increasingly cautious. And the young drivers coming into Formula 1 are also becoming more cautious. We old-school drivers want to get on with it, the youngsters would rather not drive when the conditions are like that, and those in charge then receive conflicting information. They’re also extremely cautious.”

“I, on the other hand, think we should go out in extreme conditions. Because that’s when we’re really put to the test. Is it riskier? Absolutely. But ultimately, that’s what makes it a challenge. When I was out on slicks on a wet track towards the end, I loved the challenge. That’s what racing is all about, when you have to rely on your gut feeling. And that’s exactly where you can really make the difference. I also believe that’s exactly where I made the difference,” added the 41-year-old Briton.

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