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As Lewis Hamilton embraces the thrilling battle with Charles Leclerc, he is reminded of his previous encounters with Nico Rosberg.
Hamilton and Leclerc went back and forth multiple times during the Chinese Grand Prix, with Hamilton ultimately winning out and securing his first podium finish with Ferrari.
After the race, Leclerc praised his battle with Hamilton, noting that it was a good sign for Ferrari’s hopes this season.
What’s your podium prediction for the Japanese Grand Prix?
Ferrari must be careful balancing Hamilton and Leclerc and which driver they give preference to this season, as backing one over the other could create tension.
There is concern that Hamilton’s success could get in Leclerc’s head. But for the seven-time world champion, their duel in China was reminiscent of one of his previous teammate battles.
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Lewis Hamilton loved battle with Charles Leclerc, compares it to previous duel with Nico Rosberg
Lewis Hamilton spoke at the Japanese Grand Prix media day about his battle with Charles Leclerc in Shanghai, and how much he enjoyed it.
Hamilton compared it to his 2014 battle with Nico Rosberg in Bahrain, noting how the two going back and forth multiple times was some of the most fun he’s had in years.
“Of course, there’s bits that I don’t love. The deployment and the lifting coasts that we’re having to do… It’s all not ideal. But racing-wise, it’s been really, really fun.
“That race I had with Charles, just in the second race, was one of the most fun races I’ve had, I think. Other than that, it was maybe me and Nico in Bahrain many years ago.
“So I just hope we get more of that because that’s what racing’s about. It’s like back and forth, back and forth, rather than one [over]take and then it’s over. So I personally enjoy that.”
“My point that I was making earlier is that in karting, it happens in karting all the time, back and forth, back and forth, no one ever calls it yo-yo racing. It’s real racing.”
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Lewis Hamilton excited about ‘new era’ of racing being ushered in
Hamilton spoke further about the controversy surrounding the new regulations. While he understands the polarising nature of the new regulations, Hamilton admitted he’s excited for the new era.
“Obviously, there’s lots of different views on this year’s generation of car, but I mean, for me, it’s just exciting that it’s a new era for the sport.
“I think every time it has been a new era, it’s always been exciting to see where people come out and I’m proud of the team.
“The work we’ve done over the last year to get us to this point and be closer to the front and in the battle, I think is really a showing of the amazing work the team’s done.”
Many believe that Hamilton is rejuvenated with Ferrari this season, showing signs of being back to his best after a few difficult years.
There is reason to be sceptical about Hamilton’s return to form, but few fans will deny that him being a top contender ultimately brings excitement to Formula 1.
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