P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Karun Chandhok has said Lewis Hamilton’s lack of qualifying pace is a “real surprise”, but does not believe his speed it what caused Ferrari to pursue his signature.
Karun Chandhok expressed concern over Lewis Hamilton’s recent struggles in qualifying, noting a significant drop in his one-lap performance despite his numerous pole positions. Chandhok believes Hamilton’s confidence has taken a hit as he prepares to transition to Ferrari in the upcoming season. The shift in F1 regulations towards ground effects has posed challenges for both Hamilton and Mercedes in maintaining their pace. Hamilton’s difficulty in matching George Russell this season has raised questions about his competitive edge. However, Chandhok remains optimistic about Hamilton’s potential impact at Ferrari, emphasizing his championship experience as a valuable asset for the team. While acknowledging the need for improvement in qualifying, Chandhok believes Hamilton’s understanding of championship strategies will be crucial for Ferrari’s success.
