Sir Lewis Hamilton backs the decision to move Emilia Romagna Grand Prix qualifying to avoid a clash with Prince Philip’s funeral on Saturday… as seven-time F1 world champion talks up Duke of Edinburgh’s ‘inspiring legacy’
- Formula One has rescheduled practice and qualifying for Grand Prix at Imola
- The FIA say there will be no cars on track during the Duke of Edinburgh’s funeral
- Prince Philip died last week and his funeral will take place on Saturday at 3pm
- Sir Lewis Hamilton believes it is the right decision to bring qualifying forward
Sir Lewis Hamilton has welcomed Formula One’s decision to move qualifying forward at the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix in Imola to avoid a clash with the Duke of Edinburgh’s funeral.
The seven-time world champion, who won the tight opening race in Bahrain three weeks ago, is vying with Red Bull’s Max Verstappen as favourite to take pole this weekend in locked-down Italy.
After hearing qualifying will be accelerated to a 1pm BST start on Saturday, the Briton said: ‘I don’t see the change being a problem. The Duke was such a racing fan and it is so sad to hear of his passing.
Sir Lewis Hamilton believes the right decision has been made to change qualifying timings at the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix in Imola this weekend as a sign of respect to the Royal Family
The Duke of Edinburgh passed away on Friday at the age of 99, with his funeral on Saturday
‘He had a really great long life and I know he was really committed to having an impact and helping young people.
‘He has left an inspiring legacy behind, and my thoughts and prayers are with Her Majesty and the family.
‘I hope we can continue to race and I am sure he will be watching from above.’
Hamilton, aiming to eclipse Michael Schumacher’s joint record of seven world titles, added: ‘I have positive feelings with the result in Bahrain and a good outlook on the weekend.
‘Red Bull have started off really well with a great package and Max is driving well, too, so it is set up for a good season.’
Formula One has rescheduled practice and qualifying for this weekend’s Imola Grand Prix