Lewis Hamilton, depressed 5th 'Furious Bounce' / Mercedes F1 Abu Dhabi GP qualifying[F1-Gate.com]

Lewis Hamilton (Mercedes) has revealed that the Mercedes W13 is rebounding strongly in the straight after a disappointing qualifying session for the 2022 Abu Dhabi F1 GP.

Lewis Hamilton finished fifth in qualifying at Yas Murray Circuit. There was a difference of 0.6 seconds to Max Verstappen who took pole position. It was a disappointing setback for Mercedes F1, who managed a 1-2 finish last time out at Interlagos.

Mercedes F1 showed competitive pace throughout practice and Lewis Hamilton said he was surprised by the huge gap to Red Bull, who blocked the front row in Abu Dhabi.

“We didn’t look half a second behind, so it was a bit surprising to be that far behind in qualifying,” Hamilton told Sky Sports.

“Sixty percent of that is just straight. Other than that, I’ve given it my all. I can’t wait for the end of tomorrow.”

Porpassing, who resurfaced again this weekend, appears to be partly to blame for Mercedes F1’s lack of pace in Abu Dhabi. A combination of recurring knocks and brake problems made it difficult for Lewis Hamilton to drive in qualifying.

“The fierce bounce is back,” added Lewis Hamilton.

“The bounce is back and I’m definitely losing time. Otherwise it’s very slow on the straights. I’ve had a problem with the brakes. I’ve had problems for almost the whole year.”

“The separation of the brake discs and the increase in brake temperature pushes the car in one direction when you apply the brakes. It pulls you to the right as you enter Turn 5. It’s a left hander. Not ideal.”

Mercedes are 19 points behind Ferrari, second in the constructors’ standings.

Charles Leclerc will start from third position on the grid and Carlos Sainz Jr. from fourth position on the grid.

George Russell, winner of the previous F1 Brazilian Grand Prix, remained in 6th place in qualifying.

Lewis Hamilton Mercedes-AMG Petronas Motorsport F1 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix