Lewis Hamilton Calls on Ferrari to Adopt Faster Pitlane Procedures

Lewis Hamilton urges Ferrari to mirror Mercedes-style pitlane routines after Singapore qualifying, where he takes sixth. He argues delays in the pitlane sap tyre temperature and compromise peak grip.

He plans private discussions with the team to refine procedures. He stresses the issue persists over several events, not just Marina Bay.

Extended waiting erodes surface and carcass temperatures, worsening out-lap preparation as the track ramps up. That forces harder warm-up work and expends precious tyre life.

Hamilton says Ferrari often joins the queue last, stopping at pit exit and bleeding heat. He estimates a five-to-six degree drop, costing up to half a second.

By contrast, Mercedes releases cars early, preserving temperature and building a cleaner gap. That timing advantage translates directly into more consistent qualifying laps.

The trade-off is classic qualifying management: track position versus tyre readiness under FIA guidance. Teams must respect gaps and compliance requirements while avoiding impeding.

Hamilton maintains his pace is competitive, citing strong Q1 speed. He believes sharper pitlane timing with engineers and strategists could convert pace into grid gains.

Singapore intensifies these effects. The street circuit’s narrow window punishes cold fronts, and pitlane architecture encourages queues that stall tyre build-up.

With the field compressed, execution margins are thin. Process improvements align with evolving auto racing industry trends that reward operational discipline.

Ferrari’s response may shape upcoming weekends. Hamilton vows to maximise race-day opportunities while pushing for change, mindful of rivals’ 2026 planning, including Verstappen and Red Bull.

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Daniel Miller

Daniel Miller reports on Formula 1 Grand Prix weekends with race-day analysis, team-radio highlights, and point-standings updates. He explains power-unit upgrades, aerodynamic developments, and driver rivalries in straightforward, SEO-friendly language for a global F1 audience.