Lewis Hamilton was caught napping by Red Bull driver Sergio Perez ahead of the Las Vegas Grand Prix action on Saturday.
Red Bull driver Sergio Perez captured a video of Lewis Hamilton ‘sleeping’ during the drivers’ briefing ahead of FP3 and qualifying on Saturday at the Las Vegas Grand Prix.
The paddock was already suffering from jet lag before the on-track action got underway in Las Vegas, but after a loose water valve cover disrupted Friday’s running, all 20 drivers were forced to climb back into their cars at 2: 30am local time for a 90-minute, extended FP2 session.
The resulting fatigue has naturally carried over into Saturday’s running and it clearly got too much for Hamilton, who fell asleep during the drivers’ briefing ahead of FP3.
Hamilton’s shut-eye was captured by Checo, who duly posted the footage to his Instagram story with the caption: “Someone has some jet lag,” along with a laughing emoji.
Hamilton reposted the video on his Story with the caption “Beauty Sleep”, with Mercedes’ social media administrator adding: Czech’s caption was a nod to Hamilton’s comments earlier in the weekend.
While other athletes complained about the effects of jet lag, the seven-time world champion insisted he was not feeling the effects of jet lag.
When asked about the difficulties on the track before the race, Hamilton replied: “Personally, I didn’t think jet lag was a problem. I’m still able to continue training and feel great.
“I’ve seen some drivers complain about jet lag… but since I’ve been here I haven’t felt it’s an issue. It’s tough But we know what it’s like to start the sport. Hamilton was clearly in the minority in this regard.
Perez himself said: “I think it’s a little crazy to stay up this late at night. Quite a bit, actually.”
But some riders find ways to combat jet lag, Carlos Sainz explained: “As soon as Friday, Saturday and Sunday arrive, you get a huge dose of caffeine, espresso or adrenaline, and driving a Formula 1 car usually comes with jet lag.”
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