Former F1 driver points to Hamilton failing: 'It is weighing on his mind'

Former F1 driver Karun Chandhok has stated Lewis Hamilton's poor qualifying record is likely “weighing on his mind” ahead of his switch to Ferrari.

Hamilton and team-mate George Russell each out-qualified one another 11 times during last year's campaign.

However, the pendulum has swung in Russell's favour this year as he is leading Hamilton 16-5 in qualifying with three rounds remaining in the season.

Hamilton sits as the most successful qualifier in F1 history with 104 pole positions - 36 more than second-placed Michael Schumacher.

The seven-time world champion will face off against Charles Leclerc next year at Ferrari, who is regarded as one of the strongest drivers over one lap on the grid.

“Is he [Lewis] as fast as Charles over one lap? I don’t think so – but I don’t think anyone is,” Chandhok told The Independent.

“I think Charles is the best qualifier in F1. Is Lewis still capable of winning the world championship in the right car? Absolutely. I think there is still enough evidence to suggest he is quick enough.”

Chandhok suggested the fresh motivation of performing for a new squad switching teams could offer Hamilton a boost.

“I think Lewis is concerned about it [his qualifying record], he’s sounded pretty despondent in recent times, saying ‘my qualifying is terrible, I’ve forgotten how to qualify',” he said.

“It sounds weird for a guy who is statistically the most successful qualifier in the history of the sport.

“I do think it’s weighing on his mind. It’s one of these things, maybe he needs a new challenge. 

“He’s had three years of not having the opportunity to fight for pole. When he can fight for pole, drivers like him can find another gear.”