Sir Lewis Hamilton has backed Formula One’s decision to move qualifying for the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix and avoid an overlap with the Duke of Edinburgh’s funeral.
The battle for pole position at the second round of the season in Imola on Saturday has been brought forward by an hour to conclude at 2pm.
The Duke of Edinburgh, who died last Friday, served as President in Chief of the British Racing Drivers’ Club for 42 years. A minute’s silence will also be observed ahead of qualifying.
Asked about the revisions to the timetable, Hamilton, who was knighted in the New Year Honours, said: “I don’t see it being a problem. The Duke of Edinburgh was such a racing fan and it is so sad to hear of his passing.
“He had a great, long life and I know he was really committed to having an impact and helping young people.
“He has left an inspiring legacy behind and my thoughts and prayers are with Her Majesty and the family. I hope we can continue to race and I am sure he will be watching from above.”
Hamilton, 36, arrives in Imola bidding to build on his impressive win at last month’s thrilling season opener in Bahrain.
The seven-time world champion held off the advances of Max Verstappen in a battle which left fans hopeful of a season-long fight between the grid’s two brightest stars.
“It is clear that Red Bull have a great package and Max is driving well, too, so it is set up to be a good season,” added Hamilton.
“We are only going into the second race so I cannot assume or guess what is up ahead, but I hope it is exciting and it is all that it’s cracked up to be, particularly in a time when we need the best entertainment possible.
“We approach every weekend the same because if it ain’t broke don’t fix it. We just have to keep our heads down.
“It is exciting for all of us that we have such a challenge on our hands and it is not one to shy away from.”
Verstappen, on fresher tyres and speedier machinery, looked poised to pass Hamilton in the closing laps in Bahrain.
But the Dutchman fluffed his lines when he performed an illegal move on the Mercedes driver, before crossing the line in second.
“Of course I was disappointed, but I have learned over the years that all is not lost after one race,” said Verstappen.
”What do you want to do? It makes no sense to start smashing things, or throwing things around. If finishing second is a bad result then I am looking forward to the next 22 races.”
Why are you making commenting on The National only available to subscribers?
We know there are thousands of National readers who want to debate, argue and go back and forth in the comments section of our stories. We’ve got the most informed readers in Scotland, asking each other the big questions about the future of our country.
Unfortunately, though, these important debates are being spoiled by a vocal minority of trolls who aren’t really interested in the issues, try to derail the conversations, register under fake names, and post vile abuse.
So that’s why we’ve decided to make the ability to comment only available to our paying subscribers. That way, all the trolls who post abuse on our website will have to pay if they want to join the debate – and risk a permanent ban from the account that they subscribe with.
The conversation will go back to what it should be about – people who care passionately about the issues, but disagree constructively on what we should do about them. Let’s get that debate started!
Callum Baird, Editor of The National
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereLast Updated:
Report this comment Cancel