Hamilton Refutes Claims of Low Drive in Subpar F1

Lewis Hamilton insists his motivation remains intact, steadfast even as his Mercedes underperforms.

Lewis Hamilton has responded to claims by a former Mercedes F1 engineer that his commitment wanes when he does not have a Formula 1 car capable of winning races.

Former engineer Philipp Brändle told Motorsport-Total that Hamilton’s turnaround in results mirrors his approach to the competitiveness of his machine.

“What always slightly sets him apart, both positively and negatively, is that when he knows he has a shot at winning something, he can drive at 200%,” said Brändle.

“However, if he feels the car isn’t performing well and he somehow has no chance of winning the race, then unfortunately, he lets himself go a bit, which is a shame.”

“If he sees the slightest chance, then he drives as well as ever, like no one else.”

However, Hamilton was keen to address these remarks, with the seven-time world champion insisting he has worked as hard as ever since 2022 to reverse the trend.

“I feel more and more comfortable with the car,” Hamilton stated at Zandvoort.

“I’ve struggled over the year, I saw this comment, but I respond that I’ve worked tirelessly all year.”

“I’ve given my all since 2022, but it hasn’t been enough, so I just tried to work on it and improve.”

“And as the car progresses, I feel increasingly comfortable, and now the results are starting to come, which is a great feeling.”

The Briton, who will join Ferrari in 2025, aims for more victories and a better standing in both championships during his remaining 10 races with Mercedes.

“If we can catch up to Ferrari in the constructors’ championship, it would be an incredible comeback.”

“If we can get into the top 5 in the drivers’ standings, if I can get close to the top 3, I think that would be a good comeback after a season that started off difficult.”