Lewis Hamilton smiles as Mercedes improves

Zandvoort — Lewis Hamilton regained his grin and optimism on Friday, five days after his opening lap collision in Belgium, when he was third-fastest in first practice for the Dutch Grand Prix.

The seven-time world champion momentarily led in his Mercedes until being passed by Charles Leclerc and Carlos Sainz in their Ferraris.

“That’s much better than last Sunday, and much better than last Friday as well,” he remarked, alluding to his crash with Alpine’s two-time winner Fernando Alonso.

“Therefore, it’s been a good start to the weekend. We’re in a lot better position with the vehicle, despite the fact that the circuit is somewhat different and we’re still working on it.

“We are not too far behind, which is encouraging, and the automobile is not in terrible shape. We must continue to chip away.

“The car’s performance isn’t terrible, but we’re still pushing.”

In the first session, teammate George Russell was the quickest, but in the second session, he was sixth.

“Much superior than a spa!” said Russell. “Unquestionably, the automobile is operating better. I believe it will be close tomorrow.

“McLaren and Aston Martin are fast, and we are still aware that qualifying is our weak area, but I believe the race will be won by us, and our long-run speed seems solid.

“But you’ve got to get off to a good start, you know; if we start in row three, it’s going to be tough to push for first or second.”

AFP