Lewis Hamilton defends unusual decision as major Ferrari step made

Lewis Hamilton defended his decision to skip simulator preparation ahead of the 2026 Canadian Grand Prix at Circuit Gilles Villeneuve, saying it was the best he had felt all year after qualifying fifth for the Sprint. The 41-year-old seven-time world champion described it as probably his best qualifying session in some time, crediting strong set-up work with his engineers. Hamilton made a mistake at the hairpin on his final flying lap, which cost him a potential second-row start, but remained positive and indicated he will continue avoiding simulator work going forward.