Hamilton Skips Ferrari Simulator for Canada, Cites Longstanding Correlation Issues

Lewis Hamilton has confirmed he will not use Ferrari's simulator to prepare for the Canadian Grand Prix, despite calling it a "powerful tool." The seven-time world champion, who has struggled with correlation between simulation and real-world performance, is instead focusing on data analysis with his engineers. This decision stems from years of inconsistent simulator results, with only one instance in his entire career where a simulator setup translated perfectly to the track—Singapore 2012 at McLaren.

Why it matters:

Hamilton's choice highlights a persistent challenge in modern F1: bridging the gap between virtual and actual car behavior. For Ferrari, a team still refining its 2026 challenger, having a driver who avoids the simulator could slow development correlation. However, Hamilton's track record—including his best weekend this season in China, which he also prepared for without simulator use—suggests his approach may yield short-term gains.

The details:

• Hamilton describes Ferrari's simulator as "the best I've ever seen" and acknowledges its potential, but says correlation issues have made it unreliable for his setup work.
• He recalls that only once—at Singapore 2012 with McLaren—did a simulator setup match exactly with the car on track for qualifying.
• Since joining Ferrari, Hamilton has contributed input to improve the simulator, but still finds that track conditions often contradict simulation results.
• For Canada, Hamilton opted out of simulator sessions entirely, focusing instead on deep data analysis of through-corner balance, mechanical balance, brake optimization, and corner approaches.

What's next:

Hamilton is eager to test his theory that data analysis can replace simulator prep, especially at a track where he has historically excelled. He does not rule out future simulator use but will evaluate based on this weekend's outcome. If successful, it could influence how he and Ferrari approach upcoming races.