F1 News, Reports and Race Results

Hamilton troubled by speed difference between F1's cars

Lewis Hamilton says the gap in pace between Formula 1's front runners and the rest of the field is a "serious" problem for the sport.

The Mercedes driver is stating the obvious, and reminding everyone of a problem that has lingered in F1 for many years, but the Brit insists the issue is compounded by the difficulty to overtake.

"As you get within five seconds, you immediately feel the effect of the turbulent air," said the leader of the world championship.

"The other guys are doing their own races so they don't want to slow down much for you. I was stuck behind the Toro Rossos and just couldn't get close to them," Hamilton added.

"It's a difficult situation. The difference in speed between the cars is too much. It's a serious problem for our sport."

Hamilton reiterated his sadness to see former top teams Williams and McLaren stranded at the back of the field, insisting their presence there only further demonstrates a need to revamp the rules.

"How can Williams and McLaren be three seconds behind? It's too much," said Hamilton.

"We need to change the rules to reduce these speed differences, and then we'll get great races like we see in MotoGP."

Gallery: The beautiful wives and girlfriends of F1 drivers

Keep up to date with all the F1 news via Facebook and Twitter

Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.

Recent Posts

F1 boss Domenicali on why Apple TV will shatter ESPN’s records

Formula 1 is gearing up for a new digital era in the United States –…

11 hours ago

Sainz reveals ‘not ideal’ reality shared with Alonso

Carlos Sainz has lifted the lid on a private paddock conversation he enjoyed with Fernando…

12 hours ago

Horner names the true culprits of his Red Bull exit

Christian Horner has offered a revealing look back at his dramatic exit from Red Bull…

14 hours ago

McLaren Majesty: When Prost and Lauda stood alone

Alain Prost follows Niki Lauda by just two days on the February birthday calendar, the…

15 hours ago

Coulthard on why Bottas has the edge over Perez at Cadillac

Sergio Perez’s Formula 1 comeback with Cadillac is already under the microscope – and he…

16 hours ago

‘Not pure Formula 1’: Verstappen fires fresh salvo at 2026 cars

After pre-season testing in Bahrain gave F1’s drivers their first real taste of the sport’s…

18 hours ago