Hamilton: “It’s more exciting than ever”

Lewis Hamilton was again the strongest in qualifying for the Chinese GP by setting the new lap record on the Shanghai International Circuit with a time of 1'31''678 at the wheel of his Mercedes W08.

While the Ferrari seemed able to beat the Silver Arrows, Lewis Hamilton finally beat the SF2H of Sebastian Vettel. The Mercedes driver thus won his 6th consecutive pole, equaling the performance of Ayrton Senna.

“This day was a real challenge, commented Lewis Hamilton at a press conference in the paddock of the Shanghai International Circuit. The weekend turns out to be interesting. Our testing was limited to this morning, but the Ferraris have seemed very fast since FP3. »

“We expected close qualifying. I managed to progress session after session. I followed the plan and performed well enough, even if it didn't go very well at first. I was wary of turn 14 and the last turn because you can lose big in these places. »

New fight in perspective

Lewis Hamilton has expressed his impatience at the idea of ​​battling against Scuderia Ferrari in unusual conditions, with rain expected for the start of the Chinese GP.

“I am very happy with this result. My fight with Vettel fascinates me, that's what makes motorsport, added the Chinese GP pole sitter. It's more exciting than ever because we're really fighting with them (Ferrari). Tomorrow will be an unusual day. I have never ridden with grooved tires yet this season and we should take advantage of them. Ferrari has a car very efficient which can progress in racing. We can expect a close fight. »

Lewis Hamilton only finished 7th last year at the Chinese GP after starting from last position. His former teammate Nico Rosberg won ahead of Sebastian Vettel.