BREAKING NEWS: Lewis Hamilton performs… steering wheel technique at start of F1… Read More
Lewis Hamilton performs… steering wheel technique at start of F1… Read More
Lewis Hamilton has developed a unique steering wheel technique that has caught the attention of Formula 1 fans, who have followed his career over the past 17 years. Despite winning seven world titles, a peculiar habit during race starts has only recently gained widespread notice.
Unlike other drivers, including his teammate George Russell, Hamilton doesn’t grip the steering wheel with both hands at the start of races. Instead, he positions his left hand at the top of the wheel. Once you spot this habit, it’s hard to miss, and it distinguishes him from other drivers on the grid. Fans have speculated about this strange grip, wondering if it has any impact on his performance or if it’s just a quirk of the British driver.
One of Mercedes’ team mechanics stepped in last year to explain Hamilton’s technique, ending the social media speculation surrounding it. In a pit tour recorded by a fan, the mechanic demonstrated Hamilton’s steering grip and asked, “Do you know why Lewis starts like that? Why? What do you think?”
The mechanic continued, providing insight into the reasoning behind Hamilton’s approach: “Is he showing you something? Or is he holding the downshift gear paddle so he can’t accidentally go down a gear?” Essentially, by positioning his hand this way, Hamilton ensures he doesn’t accidentally shift down at a critical moment, which could be disastrous at the start of a race.
This technique may also be linked to Hamilton’s preference for a smaller gear-shifting paddle compared to other drivers, making him more prone to accidental shifts. The grip helps him avoid this potential issue, which could explain why he adopted the habit in recent years.
Interestingly, Hamilton hasn’t always used this steering wheel technique. It was first noticed during the 2021 season, a year in which he lost the championship to Max Verstappen in the final race under controversial circumstances. This suggests that the change may have been a strategic adjustment made to reduce the chances of a costly mistake.
Hamilton’s distinctive steering wheel grip was once again visible at the start of the Belgian Grand Prix last month. In that race, he secured first place for the second time in the season, although this was partially due to the disqualification of his Mercedes teammate, Russell, whose car was found to be under the minimum required weight at the end of the race.
As Hamilton continues to chase victories, he remains focused on closing the gap in the drivers’ championship standings. At the Dutch Grand Prix, he faces a tough challenge against Red Bull’s Max Verstappen, who has dominated the Zandvoort circuit in recent years. Verstappen has won all three Dutch Grands Prix since 1985, making him the clear favorite once again.
Although Hamilton’s unusual steering technique might not be the key to his success, it has certainly piqued the curiosity of fans and experts alike. As one of the sport’s greatest drivers, every detail of his approach is scrutinized, and this particular habit is just another example of his meticulous attention to detail as he seeks any possible advantage on the track.
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