Lewis Hamilton — 2015 season

Lewis Hamilton's 2015 Formula 1 season was a demonstration of sustained performance and strategic execution, culminating in his third Drivers' World Championship.

Going in

Following his 2014 title, Hamilton entered the 2015 season as the defending champion, driving for a Mercedes-AMG F1 team that had established a clear advantage in the V6 turbo-hybrid era. The W06 chassis, powered by the Mercedes-Benz PU106B Hybrid power unit, was the class of the field, setting the stage for an internal battle with teammate Nico Rosberg. Expectations were high for Hamilton to continue his form, building on the momentum of his second championship.

How it played out

Hamilton commenced the season with immediate authority, securing victories in three of the first four races: the Australian, Chinese, and Bahrain Grands Prix, all from pole position. This early run established a significant championship lead. While Rosberg offered a challenge, particularly in Spain and Monaco where Hamilton finished second and third respectively, Hamilton consistently maximized his opportunities. A strategic misstep at the Monaco Grand Prix saw him drop from a commanding lead to third after an ill-timed pit stop under a Safety Car, a rare moment of vulnerability in an otherwise dominant first half. However, he quickly rebounded with wins in Canada and his home British Grand Prix.

The season's only DNF occurred at the Singapore Grand Prix, where a power unit issue forced his retirement from fifth on the grid. This hiccup, combined with a sixth-place finish in Hungary, provided a brief opening for Rosberg. Yet, Hamilton's response was decisive, taking victories in Belgium, Italy, Japan, Russia, and the United States. His win at the Circuit of the Americas in October, a rain-affected and eventful race, mathematically secured his third Drivers' World Championship with three races remaining.

Defining moments

The championship was characterized by Hamilton's ability to convert pole positions into race wins, demonstrating strong race management. He achieved 11 pole positions across the 19-race calendar. His performances at circuits like Monza and Suzuka, where he executed crucial overtakes and maintained control, underscored his command. The singular DNF in Singapore served as a reminder that even in a dominant car, reliability can be a factor, a challenge drivers like have also faced in different contexts. The United States Grand Prix, where he clinched the title, was a fitting climax, showcasing his ability to thrive under pressure in changing conditions.