Canadian Grand Prix: Hamilton’s Race Hits Snag with Groundhog Collision
Lewis Hamilton faced an unexpected setback during the Canadian Grand Prix, finishing sixth after sustaining damage from a collision with a groundhog. Starting from fifth place, Hamilton had aimed for a podium finish, but the incident occurred on lap eight, severely hampering his performance.
Hamilton described his race as feeling “nowhere” and noted the damage affected his vehicle’s right side significantly, resulting in a hole in the floor and contributing to brake issues later in the race. “I was just slow, lacking a lot of performance,” he stated. Despite these setbacks, Hamilton managed to maintain a hopeful outlook, recognizing that without the groundhog collision, he might have finished higher.
His race engineer, Riccardo Adami, assured Hamilton that despite the damage, he was managing the situation as well as possible. However, Hamilton remarked, “I lost a tonne of time” due to being stuck in traffic after a late pit stop.
Ferrari team principal Fred Vasseur, who has been under scrutiny, addressed the incident humorously, confirming the impact on downforce: “We damaged all the front part of the floor. It’s something like 20 points [of downforce]… We will send flowers to the marmot.” He also responded to Hamilton’s call for upgrades, stating that an enhancement package is planned before the British Grand Prix at Silverstone.
The race culminated with George Russell claiming victory from pole position, while Hamilton’s teammate, Oscar Piastri, also struggled, highlighting the ongoing competitiveness and challenges within the grid.
