Hamilton confirms Canadian GP entry despite Baku back injury
Tuesday, 14 June 2022
The Mercedes W13 car porpoising is in the spotlight.
Lewis Hamilton has declared himself fit for the Canadian Grand Prix despite a back injury suffered in Baku, stating he "would not miss it for the world".
Seven-time world champion Hamilton finished fourth at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix but repeatedly struggled with his Mercedes W13 car porpoising – otherwise known as bouncing unevenly.
That issue combined with the bumpy street circuit of Baku caused severe back pain for Hamilton, who described the race as the "most painful" of his illustrious career.
Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff suggested his star driver may be unable to feature in Montreal due to the injury, adding there was a "definite" risk of him missing out.
However, Hamilton took to Instagram on Monday to confirm his participation in Canada, with practice starting on Friday.
"Good morning world," Hamilton wrote on his Instagram story.
"Yesterday was tough and had some troubles sleeping but have woken up feeling positive today. Back is a little sore and bruised but nothing serious, thankfully.
"I've had acupuncture and physio with Ang and am on the way to my team to work with them on improving [the car]. We have to keep fighting. No time like the present to pull together and we will.
"I'll be there this weekend, wouldn't miss it for the world. Wishing everybody an amazing day and week."
Hamilton sits sixth in the drivers' standings with 62 points, some 88 points behind Red Bull's Max Verstappen, who is on course for back-to-back titles.
