Shock Twist at Mexican GP, Lewis Hamilton Snubs FP1 Over ‘Si…..read more
In a surprising turn of events at the Mexican Grand Prix, seven-time Formula 1 World Champion Lewis Hamilton has announced he will skip the crucial first practice session (FP1) this Friday. The British racing icon’s decision to sit out the opening run has sent shockwaves through the F1 paddock, as he publicly criticized the FIA’s recent regulation changes — branding them as “silly” and frustrating.
Hamilton, who is no stranger to controversy and standing up for what he believes in, is set to miss FP1, a session where drivers usually push hard to find their limits and optimize car setup ahead of qualifying and the race. His choice to forgo this vital track time is highly unusual for a driver of his caliber, and has ignited a heated debate among fans, pundits, and fellow drivers.
The FIA’s rule that has sparked Hamilton’s ire revolves around the limitations imposed on practice sessions during the tightly packed back-to-back race weekends. With the season rapidly approaching its finale, the governing body has introduced changes aimed at reducing track time for drivers, presumably to limit costs and streamline race weekend logistics. However, Hamilton clearly feels this approach is misguided, arguing that it compromises the preparation and performance of drivers and teams alike.
“I think it’s a silly rule,” Hamilton told reporters ahead of the Mexican GP. “We’re here to race, to push the limits, and the first practice session is crucial. It’s not just about rest or saving energy — it’s about gathering data, understanding the track, and fine-tuning the car. Skipping FP1 isn’t something I take lightly, but the rule makes it less necessary for me this time around.”
Hamilton’s comments have been met with mixed reactions across the F1 community. Some sympathize with his frustration, highlighting how practice sessions are an essential part of race preparation that shouldn’t be compromised. Others suggest that skipping FP1 could be a strategic move, allowing Hamilton to conserve energy and focus more on the later sessions where points are ultimately decided.
The Mexican GP is the second of two consecutive races in the current F1 calendar, following the intense action in the United States. Back-to-back races are notoriously challenging for teams and drivers, with minimal time to recover and adjust between weekends. The FIA’s recent regulations have aimed to mitigate some of this fatigue by trimming down track time, but as Hamilton’s decision illustrates, it may come at the cost of competitive fairness and driver readiness.
Hamilton’s absence from FP1 will also place more responsibility on his Mercedes team, as they will have fewer opportunities to gather valuable performance data. In a sport where milliseconds matter, every session counts, and missing any part of the weekend can potentially compromise race results.
Fans are now left to speculate how this bold move will impact Hamilton’s performance in Mexico. Known for his remarkable ability to adapt and perform under pressure, many believe he will still be a strong contender despite the limited practice. Still, the decision shines a spotlight on the ongoing tension between drivers and race regulators over the future direction of F1, especially as the sport evolves with new technical and sporting rules.
As the Mexican GP weekend unfolds, all eyes will be on Hamilton—not just on the track, but in how he navigates this challenge and whether his stance against the FIA’s “silly” rule sparks broader changes in the sport. Will other drivers follow suit? Could this be the start of a pushback against the restrictions on practice sessions? Or is it a one-off protest by one of F1’s greatest champions?
Whatever the outcome, Hamilton’s decision to sit out FP1 has undeniably shaken up the narrative heading into the Mexican GP, adding an unexpected twist to an already thrilling season. The F1 world will be watching closely as the drama continues to unfold on and off the track.