The Mercedes duo looked poised to dominate during the only dry running of the weekend before qualifying in free practice three, with Hamilton pulling out a blinding lap nearly 0.4 seconds ahead of Verstappen. However, just two and a half hours later, it seemed like Lewis was driving a different car altogether, while his teammate showcased the W15’s pace by securing pole position.
Verstappen, anticipating another challenging weekend akin to Monaco due to similar kerbs in Montreal, was the only driver to improve in the dying moments of qualifying. He set a time exactly the same as Russell’s, though the latter secured pole due to setting the lap first. This rare occurrence, where two drivers clock the exact same time, has only happened once before in F1 history since timing switched to three decimal places.
Russell’s pole position puts him in a promising spot, especially considering six of the last seven races in Canada were won from pole. However, this year’s race on the new asphalt of the Gilles Villeneuve circuit presents an unknown element in terms of tyre degradation. Traditionally a one-stop race, the new low-grip surface might push teams towards two stops, with Pirelli bringing the three softest compounds. Strategy will be key, with drivers likely starting on medium tyres to maximize traction off the line and planning pit stops around laps 15-21 and again from laps 41-50.
An alternative two-stop strategy could see drivers stretching the first medium stint, then switching to hard tyres and finishing on the faster medium tyres. Yet, with a 60% chance of rain during the race, tyre strategy could become even more complex. If it rains, those starting on hard tyres might have an advantage as they could wait longer before switching to wet weather tyres.
As for Hamilton, starting from P7, he might defy Pirelli’s strategies if rain is imminent. This could allow him to take the lead while others pit, potentially controlling the race on the fastest red soft tyres towards the end. Hamilton, with his expertise in wet conditions, will certainly fancy his chances if he’s at the front when the rain begins.
In other news, Jacques Villeneuve speculates that Toto Wolff is planning to replace Hamilton, who might be heading to Ferrari next year, with a Verstappen-like prodigy currently in F2. Wolff, however, played down these rumours, stating no decisions have been made yet.
Meanwhile, Red Bull Racing has extended Sergio Perez’s contract for another two years. Despite this show of confidence, Perez had a tough qualifying session in Montreal, starting the race from 16th position. Helmut Marko didn’t hold back, criticizing Perez’s performance yet again.
As the Canadian Grand Prix approaches, all eyes will be on Russell’s pole advantage and the weather’s impact on race strategies. Hamilton’s starting position and potential strategy divergence add another layer of excitement to what promises to be a thrilling race weekend.
