Hamilton in the Ferrari:

Spin, mega gap: “Great learning experience”

There is still room for improvement for Lewis Hamilton in the Ferrari.(Bild: AP)

A spin, a huge gap - and Lewis Hamilton still speaks of a "great learning experience". Nevertheless, the seven-time world champion says after his first qualifying session in a Ferrari: "There is certainly a lot to analyze."

It was hardly a smooth ride for Hamilton. This began on Saturday in Q2 in qualifying for the Australian Grand Prix. On his fast lap, he suddenly skids, spins - and looks in the wrong direction with his nose. "Ghost driver Hamilton" is even worth its own post to the Formula One social media team.

88 hundredths behind
After all, Hamilton makes it into Q3. But he hardly put on a gala performance there either. In the end, the Brit was 88 hundredths of a second behind pole man Lando Norris. That's a lot. And ultimately means eighth place for Hamilton.

Different from everything else
At least Hamilton has mastered the art of positive thinking. There was no sign of dejection from the former champion. Instead, he spoke of a "great learning experience". Perhaps latent criticism after all? Anyone could interpret it as follows: "The car was unlike anything I've ever driven before." Conclusion: "There is certainly a lot to analyze." Also because he had "never driven this car in the rain": "I don't know the rain settings, so I have to learn that tonight." Could be a nice evening activity.

(Bild: AFP/SAEED KHAN)

Maybe he can get some tips from his team-mate - who fared little better in qualifying. Charles Leclerc finished seventh. With a gap of 66 hundredths of a second.