Every year, the Azerbaijan GP is a thrilling from start to finish. And this year was no different. Max Verstappen took the honors, but Lewis Hamilton, after an impressive race, secured the votes from the fans as the driver of the day.
Despite finishing 4th, the Brit struggled with back issues because of the extreme porpoising of the W-13. This problem has been evident since the Bahrain GP in March, but it seems to have gotten worse in Monaco and Azerbaijan.
Congratulations to @LewisHamilton! 👏
Your #F1DriverOfTheDay #AzerbaijanGP @salesforce pic.twitter.com/K0Gz4W22Uu
— Formula 1 (@F1) June 12, 2022
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
After the race, Hamilton was clearly in pain as walked in a gingerly fashion after parking his car in the pit lane. Speaking after a difficult Grand Prix, Hamilton said, “It’s the worst race ever. One of the painful, probably the most painful race ever that I’ve experienced. The toughest battle with the car I’ve experienced as well. So, yeah, I’m glad it’s over.”
WATCH THIS STORY: When F1 Drivers Had a Blast on Top Gear Featuring Hamilton, Vettel & Ricciardo
Such a tough year, such a, you know we have had this bouncing since beginning and it’s just not got any better. Probably one race where it wasn’t really bouncing so much. I don’t know what to expect in the next races. We have got to start making improvements. “
Montreal could be like Baku where there are long high-speed straights and so the issue could well continue for Hamilton. The Silver Arrows, however, will hope that the seven-time world champion can be fit to race in Canada.
Toto Wolff feels sorry for Lewis Hamilton
Hamilton earlier revealed that his physio Angela Cullen has been helpful in treating him after Friday’s free practice sessions. And after a grueling 51-lap race in Baku, he struggled to get out of his car after the race.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Team boss Toto Wolff felt sorry for Lewis after he put on a shift and secured valuable points. He stated, “This is a bit of a s*** box to drive. And sorry for the back problems.”
Despite struggling physically, Hamilton replied, “Well done, guys. And well done on the strategy. Thank you on continuing to push.”
READ MORE: Fernando Alonso Responds to Alex Albon’s ‘Ridiculous’ Driving Accusations at Azerbaijan GP
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
The Mercedes driver had a stunning race as he completed multiple overtakes on his way to a fourth-place finish. Toto Wolff and Co have just one week now to make improvements to the car and make the bouncing effect less.
As F1 moves to Canada, Hamilton will look to get back in shape and hope the W-13’s porpoising will reduce.