P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Jenson Button names ‘big deal’ Lewis Hamilton moment despite Singapore woe
Jenson Button considers Lewis Hamilton’s out-qualifying of Charles Leclerc as significant news before the Singapore GP. Despite Hamilton securing sixth on the grid at Marina Bay and Leclerc seventh, Button believes Hamilton could have achieved a better position if not for the drop in tyre temperatures due to slow pit-lane exits. This marks only the fifth time this season that Hamilton has out-qualified Leclerc, highlighting the challenges Hamilton has faced in matching the Monegasque driver’s pace. Button, a former McLaren teammate of Hamilton, emphasizes the importance of acknowledging “small victories” in a challenging season for the 104-time pole winner. Co-panelist Jamie Chadwick expresses surprise at Hamilton’s stronger performances in tracks like Azerbaijan and Singapore, traditionally expected to favor Leclerc, who has been struggling with understeer and balance issues. Despite Leclerc’s talent, Ferrari’s unpredictability and recent struggles indicate a lack of cohesion in their performances in the past few races.
