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How frustrated Hamilton spent 24 laps stuck behind Bearman in “a horror race”
Formula 1

Lewis Hamilton endured a frustrating Azerbaijan Grand Prix in 2024, spending 24 laps stuck behind Haas stand-in driver Oliver Bearman. Starting from the pit lane due to a setup change, Hamilton’s Mercedes lacked the pace to easily make its way through the field, forcing him into an intense battle with the young British driver.

Bearman, who was filling in for Kevin Magnussen, defended his position tenaciously, holding Hamilton at bay for nearly half the race. Despite the pressure from the seven-time world champion, Bearman managed to stay ahead, capitalizing on a Haas car that performed well in straight lines but struggled on the twisty sections. For Hamilton, it was a “horror race,” as his attempts to overtake were thwarted by Bearman’s robust defense and Mercedes’ struggles with tire management and grip.

Bearman expressed respect for Hamilton after the race, acknowledging how difficult it was to hold off such an experienced driver. He highlighted the clean racing between them, saying, “I knew he wasn’t going to put me in a wall,” a compliment to Hamilton’s racecraft. Eventually, Hamilton was able to pass Bearman on lap 24 when the Haas driver’s tires overheated after pushing hard to fend off Hamilton and Williams driver Franco Colapinto. Hamilton seized the opportunity and made a clean pass at Turn 1

Hamilton’s frustrations were compounded by Mercedes’ overall struggles at Baku, as the car lacked pace compared to the front-runners. Despite this, Hamilton managed to finish ninth, with Bearman closely following in 10th, earning both drivers points in what was a grueling race for them

The extended battle between the two drivers was a highlight of the race, showcasing the talents of Bearman in only his second Formula 1 race and underlining the challenges Hamilton continues to face with a car not up to championship-winning standards. Hamilton’s endurance and strategic overtaking eventually paid off, but the difficulties he encountered throughout the race reflected ongoing issues with Mercedes’ performance in 2024