Lewis Hamilton expresses his 'pleasant' surprise over W15 as Mercedes dominates Friday FPs in Monaco

The first day of Monaco Grand Prix 2024 has been great for Mercedes and Lewis Hamilton. Seven-time world champion Hamilton was fastest in the first Free Practice session while just 0.188 seconds behind Charles Leclerc in the second session. 

With encouraging results in Monte Carlo and a much-anticipated qualifying session looming Hamilton expressed his happiness over the car. The three-time Monaco GP winner said that he was surprised by the performance of W15 but he is still expecting the team to improve the car. 

While speaking with F1 TV he said, "It's been a good day, definitely the best day we've had on the track, and the car was feeling positive, I enjoyed driving it and the track is amazing. We still have some challenges with the balance, but it was looking strong.”

"What was a surprise was the grip level and how the car was reacting here, it was a more enjoyable ride than we've had in the previous two years particularly. We can't lose the low-fuel pace, so we just need to improve in the long run pace and with the graining."

Hamilton looking to work on a tyre grip issue 

Despite finishing second in FP2, Lewis Hamilton expressed uncertainty regarding the team's progress. He also noted significant tyre graining on the medium rubber across the field. Anticipating a one-stop strategy in dry conditions for the race, the seven-time world champion is eager to address the issue proactively.

He said, "The feeling in the second session, I don't know whether we improved or not. Definitely, in the long run, we still have a lot of work to do overnight to try and make sure that we can make it to the end of the race."

It’s worth noting that Saturday’s qualification might see a lot of trouble as it is expected to rain heavily. However, a great low-fuel performance might end Hamilton’s losing streak as he might get his hands on another Monaco GP title.