P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Lewis Hamilton has claimed the new F1 cars “feel” slower than F2 machinery.
Lewis Hamilton has expressed his opinion that the new F1 cars feel slower than F2 machinery, despite believing they are more enjoyable to drive than the previous generation. The seven-time F1 champion has been generally positive about the contemporary ground effects cars under the new regulations. However, he pointed out that they are slower than the cars raced between 2022 and 2025. Hamilton mistakenly stated they were slower than F2 cars, when in reality, F2 pole time last season was 1:44.08. During the Bahrain testing, Max Verstappen set the fastest time at 1:35.433, with Hamilton trailing one second behind in fourth place. Reflecting on the new cars, Hamilton emphasized the reduced downforce, lighter weight, and easier handling, comparing it to rallying. Despite feeling slower, Hamilton experienced challenges due to gusty winds and heat in Bahrain compared to the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya.
