Hamilton concerned over rivals' bendy-wing advantage

Lewis Hamilton believes Red Bull rival Max Verstappen and the drivers in other F1 teams that have continued to run controversial ‘bendy wings’ will gain an advantage in this weekend’s Azerbaijan Grand Prix.

A number of outfits are currently using innovative methods to enable their rear wings to 'flatten' at higher speeds, reducing drag and boosting their top speed on the straights.

While the wings were designed to pass existing tests, more stringent rules only come into force from the French GP, leaving Mercedes at a potential disadvantage on the long 'straight' in Baku.

“The fact is they pass the tests that are given for this weekend, so we proceed with the way things are," said Hamilton. "Of course it is an advantage on the straights, you can gain time."

Mercedes aiming for three in a row in Baku

Hamilton had a disastrous race in Monaco, finishing seventh and handing over the world championship lead to Verstappen.

The reigning seven-time champion is naturally hoping to bounce back at a track where Mercedes has won the last two events.

Hamilton, who took the chequered flag in the 2018 race, added: “We will just try to be the best we can with what we have.

"Hopefully the future will be better in terms of how they measure those sorts of things.”

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