Hamilton respects track limits

Lewis Hamilton was quickest in the first session © Getty Images

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Lewis Hamilton said that he was respecting the track limits during practice for the Singapore Grand Prix, despite a number of kerbs having been removed.

After a number of loose kerbs caused a delay at the start of the evening, the FIA had them removed and told the drivers that they would be allowed to run outside the white lines without punishment on Friday. Hamilton said that he was expecting the kerbs to be replaced before qualifying, so had kept to the original track confines and could find more time if needed.

"We were competitive in P1, but in P2 there was a larger gap to the front and we started struggling a little with the rear tyres," Hamilton said. "There are some areas out on the track where the bolts are coming out of the kerbs - they must be taking some serious force from the cars. On a couple of the corners - Turns Three, 13 and 14 - the exit and apex kerbing has been removed, so some drivers were using the extra track.

"We don't yet know whether or not the kerbs will be reinstated tonight, so I continued driving as though the kerbs were there. If they're not replaced, then we should gain an extra couple of tenths by being able to run as wide as some of the others did."

Looking ahead, Hamilton said that the rear tyre issues would need addressing as tyre wear could be a problem during the race.

"Either way, we're going to improve the car overnight; we'll change the set-up a little bit. Qualifying will be very important tomorrow, because a good starting position for the race will be vital. Then, looking after the tyres will be key; we'll be making adjustments to limit the rears' sliding, and also to make them last longer."

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