Hamilton explains Ferrari simulator decision at Canadian GP: 'It's hit and miss'

Lewis Hamilton has opted out of the Ferrari simulator ahead of this weekend's Canadian Grand Prix, citing its inconsistent correlation with on-track performance. The seven-time champion revealed the decision after a disappointing P6 in Miami, where early contact compromised his race.

Why it matters:

Hamilton's decision challenges the growing reliance on simulation tools in F1. For a driver of his experience, the move signals potential correlation issues within Ferrari's simulator setup—a critical factor as the team pushes to close the gap to the front.

The details:

• Hamilton stressed the Ferrari simulator is "state-of-the-art" but described his experience as "hit and miss."
• He noted that during his championship years at Mercedes, he rarely used the sim. At Ferrari, he used it weekly but found set-ups often reversed at the track.
• The Briton's best Ferrari weekend (P3 at China) came without simulator work, reinforcing his decision to skip it for Montreal.
• For Canada, he focused on data analysis: “Deep diving on through-corner balance, mechanical balance, brake optimization.”

What's next:

Hamilton hasn't ruled out future simulator use—particularly for power deployment—but will rely on data correlation for now. Ferrari engineers are working closely to integrate his feedback, and the Montreal weekend will serve as a key test of the sim-free approach.