The Mercedes F1 legend Lewis Hamilton uses a technique that has left fans perplexed, despite the fact that fans noticed his left hand resting on the top of the steering wheel.
Fans of Formula One have only recently become aware of Lewis Hamilton’s unusual way of handling the steering wheel during competitions. However, a mechanic for the Mercedes F1 team has provided an explanation to put an end to the mystery.
For 17 years, Hamilton’s ardent supporters have followed his Formula One career, during which he has tied a record seven world titles. However, even the most perceptive of the British racing legend’s admirers could be excused for missing one of his racing habits: at the beginning of races, he does not grasp the steering wheel with both hands.
Instead, the future Ferrari star places his left hand at the top of the wheel during the opening lap of a race. When you notice it, his hand position becomes unmistakable and distinguishes him from other drivers, including teammate George Russell, who does not employ the same distinctive method of holding the gear shift.
Finally, last year, a Mercedes team mechanic made an effort to refute the wild claims made on social media about the unusual method. And as he gave fans a tour of the Mercedes pit, he recorded his justification, which went viral very fast.
The mechanic questioned, mirroring Hamilton’s hold: “Do you know why Lewis starts like that? Why? How do you feel?
Is he displaying something to you? or is preventing him from shifting down a gear by holding (the downshift gear paddle). Because the last thing you want is to inadvertently shift down a gear, placing your hand there prevents you from doing so.”
Hamilton’s preference for a smaller gear-shifting paddle than his fellow drivers could have contributed to his decision, as it may have made him more vulnerable to the previously mentioned problem.
It’s crucial to remember that the 39-year-old veteran hasn’t always employed this tactic. It was initially observed in the 2021 season, when Max Verstappen defeated Hamilton in the championship race under extremely contentious circumstances.
Last month, at the start of the Belgian Grand Prix, his characteristic grip on the steering wheel was once again visible. After fellow Silver Arrows driver Russell was disqualified at the end of the race for having a car that did not meet the minimum weight requirements, he won the race for the second time this season.
In order to close the distance between himself and the leaders of the drivers’ championship, Hamilton will be going for another victory at the Dutch Grand Prix this afternoon. It won’t be simple, though, as Verstappen, the leader of the championship and Red Bull rival, has won each of the last three Zandvoort races since 1985.
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