Hamilton: Ferrari ‘killing’ Mercedes on straights in Canada

Lewis Hamilton said he did not feel too disappointed despite losing out on pole position for the Canadian Grand Prix to Sebastian Vettel on Saturday, saying Ferrari was “killing” Mercedes down the back straights.

Hamilton was on course to score his seventh pole at the Circuit Gilles Villeneuve after leading the early runs in Q3, only for Vettel to overhaul him with his final lap of the session.

Hamilton lost some time on his final lap after locking up at the hairpin, but said after the session that he was pleased with Mercedes’ performance given Ferrari’s straight-line speed advantage in the final sector.

“For whatever reason, I don't feel particular disappointment. I think we gave it everything we could,” Hamilton said.

“They were just quicker. Particularly that last sector, they were just killing us. I think it was something like four-tenths or five-tenths on the straights.

“But I did everything we could and we did everything we could. I think the timing was right, our procedures were perfect, so I'm really thoroughly happy with the job. We had P1 for a second. We knew that they were quick.”

Despite losing out on pole to Vettel, Hamilton seemed buoyed by the close fight at the front of the field.

“This is good. This is how racing should be,” Hamilton said.

“I'm glad that I was able to split the Ferraris. Tomorrow should be interesting.

“The weather's fantastic, we've got a great group of fans that are here, so hopefully we can put on a good show tomorrow.”