The former Chief Strategist at Mercedes worked with Hamilton throughout their dominant period at the start of the hybrid era.
James Vowles, the Williams Team Principal and former Mercedes Chief Strategist, praises Lewis Hamilton’s natural talent and unique traits that make him incredible in a Formula 1 car. Vowles mentions Hamilton’s ability to explore every setting on the wheel during practice sessions, which sets him apart from other drivers. He recalls a specific moment in Brazil where Hamilton found an extra tenth of a second by going against simulation instructions, while his teammate Nico Rosberg followed the instructions precisely. Vowles describes Hamilton as an optimiser who uses data as a starting point but relies on his feel and instincts to push the boundaries. Despite his early perfectionist mindset and desire to maximise everything, Hamilton has matured and now completes the majority of laps during practice sessions. Vowles acknowledges that Hamilton’s quick changes in car setup can sometimes lead to setbacks, but his ability to adapt and find the right setup ultimately sets him apart from other drivers.
