Max Verstappen could have grabbed the highlight on the Las Vegas Grand Prix earlier at present, however Mercedes had each cause to rejoice after delivering their strongest results of the season. The weekend showcased a resurgence for the Silver Arrows, with George Russell and Lewis Hamilton claiming a one-two end that marked their first official double podium of the yr.
From the outset, Mercedes appeared well-positioned for fulfillment. George Russell’s pole place set the stage, because the staff thrived within the cooler temperatures of the Las Vegas circuit—circumstances just like these the place they excelled earlier at Silverstone and Circuit of Spa-Francorchamps. Nonetheless, Lewis Hamilton’s qualifying session didn’t go as easily. Pricey errors on each of his Q3 runs relegated the seven-time world champion to a disappointing P10 begin.
Regardless of this setback, Lewis Hamilton showcased his trademark tenacity, carving his means by the sector to safe second place behind his teammate. This consequence was particularly important given George Russell’s earlier disqualification at Spa-Francorchamps, which had value Mercedes a earlier one-two end. Whereas the precise causes for his or her dominance in Las Vegas stay unclear, the staff will savor this efficiency as Hamilton’s ultimate chapter with Mercedes edges nearer to its conclusion. With solely two races left earlier than he transitions to Ferrari, the British driver demonstrated his enduring prowess behind the wheel.
Curiously, Martin Brundle noticed throughout Sky Sports activities F1 protection that the Las Vegas GP might need supplied Hamilton a glimpse of Ferrari’s potential—and even given him a cause to smile beneath his helmet.
Ferrari had little to counter Mercedes’ benefit all through the weekend, however Lewis Hamilton did be aware of their straight-line velocity. Over the staff radio, as he labored to finish some crucial overtakes, Lewis Hamilton remarked: *“These guys are quick on the straights!”* Martin Brundle interpreted this as a delicate acknowledgment of Ferrari’s strengths, suggesting that the 39-year-old could already be optimistic about what awaits him in crimson overalls subsequent season.
Whereas the Dutchman celebrated one more milestone, Mercedes’ dominance in Sin Metropolis and Ferrari’s flashes of promise left no scarcity of intrigue for the ultimate two rounds—and for Lewis Hamilton’s extremely anticipated transfer to Maranello.
“That’s a bizarre one for Lewis, isn’t it? ‘These guys’ are sooner on the straights. Effectively, he’s three races away together with this one from being these guys. I ponder if there was somewhat little bit of a smile, sure, when he took his thumb off the radio.” – the Sky Sports activities broadcaster identified throughout the Las Vegas Grand Prix, as David Croft continued: “We got here into this race, in fact, we have been speaking about whether or not Hamilton is on the shelf somewhat bit, nearing the top of his shelf life. Toto Wolff somewhat intimating whether or not he would have removed Lewis Hamilton even when he hadn’t made that deal to go and signal with Ferrari and I believe that’s given Lewis an actual incentive and motivation on the market and it’s proven this weekend. Quickest in FP1 and FP2, 2nd-fastest in FP3 and will have been within the prime three in qualifying, didn’t work out in Q3, however having a significantly better race, proving he’s nonetheless acquired loads of overtaking left in him.” – the British tv broadcaster for Sky Sports activities added.
Ferrari Aiming to Welcome Lewis Hamilton in 2025 as Reigning Constructors’ Champions
Ferrari has set its sights excessive for 2025, with plans to welcome Lewis Hamilton into their ranks as a key piece of their championship puzzle. Whereas they couldn’t match Mercedes’ dominant tempo in Las Vegas, the Scuderia’s efficiency was extra predictable in comparison with the rollercoaster season skilled by the Silver Arrows. For Ferrari, consistency—although not but championship-caliber—has been a basis to construct upon, whereas Mercedes has typically been unsure of their competitiveness from one session to the subsequent.
Ferrari has demonstrated robust potential at particular circuits this season, although they continue to be conscious about their present limitations. Staff principal Frederic Vasseur has been clear about his ambitions, guaranteeing that Hamilton’s arrival in Maranello aligns with a staff able to combat for titles. Whereas the seven-time world champion gained’t be capable of take part in post-season testing in Abu Dhabi on account of contractual obligations with Mercedes, Ferrari is already strategizing the way to combine him seamlessly into their 2025 plans.
George Russell, Lewis Hamilton’s present teammate, believes the change to Ferrari may reignite Hamilton’s quest for an unprecedented eighth championship. Reflecting on the Scuderia’s progress over the 2024 season, George Russell urged that Ferrari’s regular enchancment, showcased not solely in Las Vegas however throughout the marketing campaign, may present Hamilton with the platform he wants to attain historic success throughout his tenure in crimson.
Ferrari’s focus now lies on closing the hole to McLaren whereas making ready for a future the place Hamilton’s expertise and ability may show decisive. With the groundwork being laid for a aggressive resurgence, the Maranello staff is decided handy Hamilton a automobile able to securing each particular person and Constructors’ glory when he takes up the enduring crimson overalls.
Purchase official Ferrari F1 merchandise!
Let different Scuderia Followers learn about us
