Hamilton Contemplates Departure from Mercedes Following Brazilian Struggles

Lewis Hamilton contemplated leaving Mercedes after a tough race in Brazil, stating frustration with the current season. Despite thoughts of departure, he is committed to performing his best in the remaining races as he prepares to join Ferrari. Hamilton also addressed comments made by Mercedes’ team principal, Toto Wolff, regarding his future and expressed his mental resilience.

Lewis Hamilton, a seven-time Formula 1 world champion, expressed on Wednesday that he contemplated departing from Mercedes following a challenging race in Brazil. The 39-year-old driver, who is set to join Ferrari at the conclusion of the year, indicated during the Sao Paulo race that he might leave the team earlier than scheduled. Although Mercedes characterized his comments as directed at certain team members absent from the last three races, Hamilton clarified to reporters at the Las Vegas Grand Prix that he was referencing deeper feelings.

“In the moment that’s how I felt, like I didn’t really want to come back after that weekend,” Hamilton stated. He acknowledged the frustration stemming from a disappointing season, expressing hope for a turnaround in future performances. Hamilton placed tenth in the Brazilian race and lamented it as a dismal experience, describing it as potentially his worst weekend on the track to date. During the race, he remarked, “If this is the last time I get to perform it was a shame it wasn’t great but [I am] grateful for you,” to his team via radio.

Furthermore, in response to remarks by Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff regarding Hamilton’s future with the team and his impending move to Ferrari, Hamilton emphasized his current mental resilience. He remarked, “Honestly, I feel in the best place I’ve been all year mentally, and considering how bad the last race was, I think that says enough.” Hamilton reiterated his dedication to strive for excellence in the remaining races, expressing gratitude toward his team while maintaining hope for improved performance if provided with a competent car.

Lewis Hamilton is regarded as the most accomplished driver in Formula 1 history, with seven world championship titles. His recent comments following the Brazilian Grand Prix sparked discussions regarding his commitment to Mercedes as he prepares to transition to Ferrari at the end of the season. This backdrop forms the basis for Hamilton’s expressions of frustration and contemplation about his future in the sport, especially after a notably disappointing race.

In summary, Lewis Hamilton voiced his frustrations after a tough race in Brazil, revealing that he had briefly considered leaving Mercedes before the end of the season. Despite the challenges faced during the campaign, he remains determined to close out his time with the team on a strong note. His comments highlight the emotional investment and challenges faced by elite athletes, and he looks forward to making the most of his final races with Mercedes.

Original Source: www.espn.co.uk