Speaking further with the written media, Hamilton said: “It was like it flipped on its head [between FP3 and qualifying]. It’s a very strange thing with the car. It will be interesting to get a reading because I’m obviously on the upgraded car, which should be quicker. But I don’t think it is.
“We have three-wheeling and the ride height is moving 15mm up and down and when it does that, it s***s the bed basically.”
HIGHLIGHTS: Watch the action from qualifying in Mexico as Sainz storms to pole after shock Q1 exits for Perez and Piastri
With Russell using the old-spec car – which he was already using before his hefty accident during Friday’s second practice session – Hamilton is hoping Sunday’s race proves valuable in terms of back-to-back comparisons.
“We’ll get lots of data tomorrow,” Hamilton said. “I don’t think we can compete with the guys ahead. They are just too far. So just see how it goes. I just want to get to the end of the race this time, at least.”
