Lewis Hamilton has conceded that Fernando Alonso was significantly faster than him during their intense battle for second place at the Canadian Grand Prix.
Initially, Hamilton managed to overtake Alonso at the start of the race, but the Spaniard showcased remarkable speed, eventually overtaking Hamilton and securing the second spot on the podium.
Although Hamilton initially defended his position against Alonso, the pace of the experienced Spanish driver proved too formidable to resist.
During the latter part of the Grand Prix, Hamilton and Alonso traded fastest laps, highlighting the fierce competition between the two legendary drivers.
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Hamilton ultimately finished in third place, securing consecutive podium finishes for the first time this season and his third podium finish overall.
Meanwhile, Alonso’s second-place finish marked his impressive sixth podium appearance of the 2023 campaign.
Reflecting on the battle with Alonso, Hamilton admitted: “Yeah, I was able to get him at the start but I just didn’t put up much of a fight at the end.”
Recognising Alonso’s exceptional pace, Hamilton added,:”I mean he was gonna pass me one way or the other. Pace-wise he was so much faster. I think at the time probably close to half a second faster than me.”
Hamilton then shifted his focus to ensuring a podium finish by managing his car and maximising his points.
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He explained: “I just started to look after the car and make sure I brought back as many points as possible.”
With the two locked in on-track battles this season, they are both in strong positions to fight for P2 of the Drivers’ Championship.
Although, with the competitive nature of the duo well-known, they will certainly be frustrated that the Drivers’ trophy remains out of touch, with Max Verstappen dominanting the grid.