Piastri Hits Back at Hamilton: Simulator Gap is Generational

Oscar Piastri has deemed Formula 1 simulators helpful preparation, noting a generational divide with Lewis Hamilton, who claimed he found them misleading. The McLaren driver believes F1 simulators are a 'useful' part of Grand Prix preparation.

F1 teams use simulators to collect data and familiarise themselves with the track ahead of a race weekend. While the simulator cannot tell a driver everything, it can still be a helpful tool. Teams also have dedicated Test and Simulator drivers to improve the simulators and gather more information about the tracks.

Not all full-time F1 drivers find the simulator useful, but some choose to spend significant time on it during their preparation. Earlier this season, seven-time World Champion Hamilton stated that he found it difficult to align the simulator work with on-track performance. The Ferrari driver subsequently opted not to use the simulator ahead of the Canadian GP and instead focused on the data itself.

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"I find it useful. I've also grown up in a different generation to what Lewis would have grown up in," Piastri said to media. "Obviously, simulators have been around for a long time now, but I get they're not for everyone. With the current cars, they are very complicated, and I find that having some simulator running is quite useful, both for myself and the team."

Despite using a simulator in his own race preparation, the Australian acknowledged that it might not work for others on the grid. Every driver's preparation and routine differ. What one driver finds useful might not work for another. Still, many opt to utilise the simulators at the team factory.

Piastri continued explaining that there will be differences between driving in the simulator and driving on the real track. "But everyone's different. They're never going to be perfect. They're never going to be the bulletproof tool, and they're never going to be as good as driving the real car. You work with the tools you've got, or you don't, if you think that's better for you."

Piastri and Hamilton's two different generations could not be more clearly defined by their experiences with simulators. While Hamilton is content to pass up using one, the Australian maintains its benefits, both having conviction in their viewpoints. Who is correct, however, remains a topic of debate amongst drivers and fans.