Hamilton seeks to improve after Ferrari debut struggles

In China, Formula 1 prepares for its first Sprint weekend of the season on March 21, 2025, amid significant attention on McLaren and Lewis Hamilton. McLaren's Lando Norris arrives in Shanghai with momentum after his victory at the Australian Grand Prix, leading the drivers' standings. Meanwhile, Hamilton, in his new role with Ferrari, faced challenges in the previous race where he qualified eighth and struggled with tire strategy. He is optimistic that this weekend could be an opportunity for a reset as he continues to acclimate to his new team and car setup. The resurfaced track presents new challenges for all drivers, including how to adjust quickly with only one practice session before qualifying. Amidst the competitive atmosphere, the passing of former team owner Eddie Jordan has cast a shadow over the weekend, as a significant loss to the motorsport community. Tributes from former drivers, including Martin Brundle, reflect on Jordan's impact in the sport. Hamilton acknowledges the need for time to become fully integrated into the Ferrari team and utilize his experience effectively. As the weekend unfolds, the focus will be on whether Hamilton can leverage his skills to challenge McLaren's current dominance and if the rookie drivers will handle the Sprint weekend format successfully. The first day of the Sprint weekend includes practice and qualifying, setting the stage for the subsequent races. With McLaren’s apparent superiority, Ferrari, Hamilton, and other competitors must find ways to close the performance gap if they intend to challenge for top positions. The unique format of the Sprint weekend adds pressure to all drivers, especially the rookies, who are looking to establish themselves amidst the heightened stakes. Overall, the weekend in China promises high drama as drivers adapt to new conditions while racing on a resurfaced track for the first time.