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Formula 1

“It is not impossible” : Lewis Hamilton on Lando Norris and McLaren’s chances for top spot

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“It is not impossible” : Lewis Hamilton on Lando Norris challenging Max Verstappen for the F1 title Lewis Hamilton has been in the F1 scene for about 17 years, long enough to know and thing or two about it. The seven-time champion in his veteran years has become a prominent figure both inside and outside the circuit, with his thoughts and opinions given priority over others. Lewis Hamilton’s experience is multifaceted, with his influence increased tenfold over the years. Off-track, he is an advocate for diversity and has multiple ventures which focus on sustainability and wellness. The Briton is also an inspiration and a role model for young drivers due to his success coming from a modest background and also uses his platform to encourage young drivers to stay on the right path. But perhaps the biggest influence Hamilton has had over the course of his career is his constant mentorship and support towards young F1 drivers, most notably fellow teammate George Russell, son of former rival Michael Schumacher, Mick Schumacher, and most recently his praises for McLaren’s Lando Norris. Lewis Hamilton has faith in Lando Norris despite being 78 points behind Red Bull In a recent interview with PlanetF1, the Briton was asked about his former team McLaren’s chances against the heavyweights Red Bull. Although the seven-time champion was not exactly optimistic, he related to it as he was in the same position before, and did not rule out the chances of the underdogs. “I think there was a time I was here where I was 40 or something points behind – 70 is a big number when you’re against a car that has probably very, very close to a 100 percent record. It may have dropped down slightly in one of the races when Max’s engine stopped in Australia. But, otherwise, they’re a very, very highly-performing team. So I mean, it is not impossible, but it is a huge, challenging task, but absolutely not impossible,” said the 39-year-old. “They’ve got two very strong drivers that are able to compete against, ultimately currently in the championship, one car that’s really up there doing a lot of the points scoring on the other side. So they’ve got something they can work with there, for sure,” the veteran added. Lewis Hamilton has not made any surprising statement, as beating the duo of Max Verstappen and RBR will be no ordinary feat. The Dutch has been the ultimate frontrunner since 2021, and there seems to be no answers for his dominance, although Charles Leclerc, George Russell and Norris himself, are coming closer. Lando Norris’s career trajectory is certainly on an upwards path, as the F1’s biggest talent has brought back a resurgence at McLaren. Sir Lewis Hamilton’s words will definitely be on the 24-year-old’s mind, and encourage him and McLaren to keep pushing for the top spot.

Lewis Hamilton
Formula 1

“He doesn’t come to Ferrari to enjoy his retirement” : Ferrari chairman confident that Lewis Hamilton will win eighth F1 title

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“He doesn’t come to Ferrari to enjoy his retirement” : Ferrari chairman confident that Lewis Hamilton will win eighth F1 title John Elkann is a prominent figure in the business world, and is known for making strategic and key investments. He serves as the chairman and CEO of Exor, which has made significant contributions in various industries including sports teams like Juventus FC and Ferrari. John Elkann specifically has remained in close ties with Ferrari, and is leading them to restore its previous storied excellence and heritage. This can be seen from the groundbreaking transfer for F1 legend Lewis Hamilton from Mercedes. Lewis Hamilton has joined Ferrari and is preparing for a ‘new challenge’ in his career, although many think this he is on his way to retirement. But the Ferrari chairman has different thoughts on this matter, and believes the Briton will bring back greatness for the Italian team, breaking an 18 year long wait for an F1 drivers’ title. Ferrari director believes age will not be a factor for Lewis Hamilton to break records In an interview with Italy’s Corriere dello Sport, the Italian revealed that he is very excited for the seven-time champion’s arrival, and that the 39-year-old (40 by the time he joins) will not slow down in pursuit to win his eighth title. “Certain things happen very quickly. This was the moment when he and Ferrari found each other. Lewis wants his eighth world title, Ferrari also wants to win and with Lewis we are stronger. He is not coming to us to enjoy his retirement and it is important that he has motivated people around him,” stated the 48-year-old. John Elkann believes that competition is getting much higher than before, and the experience of Lewis Hamilton will provide extra motivation for the team to reach its fullest potential. “It is really exciting in Formula 1 now, with four teams very close to each other. It is important to aim for maximum potential. Those with more experience tend to be more consistent and that could be a deciding factor,” the Ferrari director added. In the world of sports, it is not very unusual seeing athletes who were at the top of their respective sports in their prime continue their dominance even in their latter years. Examples like Lionel Messi who won the World Cup while being the best player of the tournament at 35, Cristiano Ronaldo still scoring goals for fun at 39, LeBron James who has arguably been the best player in the Olympics at 39, and most recently, Novak Djokovic who won the Olympic gold at 37 years of age. Similarly, the Ferrari director ensures that Hamilton’s stint at Ferrari will be no different.  “The two of them, Federer, Biles, Ronaldo, Messi and Paltrinieri himself, with dedication and sacrifices they are overcoming the physical limits due to age. It is also true that we are in a historical phase in which we live longer and the careers of sportsmen and women are also extended.” Elkann concluded. Lewis Hamilton has been at the pinnacle of his sport for over a decade now, and if someone can bring home an eighth F1 title at the age of 40, he is certainly the man to put your money on the line. Also Read: “The fact that I am not the bookmakers’ favorite is just a motivation for me” : Novak Djokovic ahead of the 2024 Paris Olympics

Formula 1

“He clearly wants to have another chapter in his career” : Andrew Shovlin reveals reason behind Lewis Hamilton’s Mercedes departure

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“He clearly wants to have another chapter in his career” : Andrew Shovlin reveals reason behind Lewis Hamilton’s Mercedes departure Lewis Hamilton was set to extend his Mercedes contract by two more years, but the bombshell news of him leaving the Silver Arrows to join the Prancing Horses earlier this season left everyone in shock. Many were left wondering the reason behind his switch to Ferrari. Although after making this announcement, things have not looked that bad at Mercedes, as the team has overall performed on a better level than before. Lewis Hamilton has claimed two victories this season in Silverstone and Spa, his first coming at home after a lengthy dry spell of almost three years. The Briton has also been taking part with the engineering team, particularly the trackside engineering director Andrew Shovlin, providing crucial feedbacks on the car’s performances and weaknesses. He remains a key central figure in the team, and looks forward to the remainder of the season. During this resurgence, questions were led to be asked whether or not the 39-year-old will regret leaving Mercedes. “I think his biggest reasons are not necessarily ones of car performance” : Mercedes engineering director Lewis Hamilton and Mercedes trackside engineering director Andrew Shovlin have had a significant professional relationship over the years, with many successes coming along the way. Having worked closely with the Briton, Shovlin addressed the reason as to why he is leaving Mercedes at this point in his career. “I think his biggest reasons are not necessarily ones of car performance. He clearly wants to have another chapter in his career beyond his very successful one with Mercedes. He’s of an age where if he was going to do that, he would need to do it sooner rather than later,” said the 50-year-old (via GP Fans). Andrew Shovlin also said that the Briton is looking for a different challenge in his already storied career. Add that to his childhood dream of dawning the Italian colors, it was a timely decision made by the 39-year-old, as his racing days are gradually coming to an end. “As I said, if we were dominating a championship, I suspect it would have been difficult for him to do that [exit], but I think a big part of Lewis is wanting to have another team and another challenge in his career. I think when someone’s decided that they want to do that, it can be quite difficult to persuade them otherwise,” the Mercedes director added. The successful pair will part ways after this season, as Mercedes remains optimistic about their performance and the potential for further successes, while the legend of Lewis Hamilton will continue at the Scuderia, teaming up with Charles Leclerc on the way. Also Read: “That’s not my problem either” : Max Verstappen responds to Lewis Hamilton’s ‘act like a world champion’ claim

Lewis Hamilton
Formula 1

“I wish I could go to one of his races” : Simone Biles reveals her conversation with Lewis Hamilton

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“I wish I could go to one of his races” : Simone Biles reveals her conversation with Lewis Hamilton Professional athletes of different sports have made a cultural habit of linking up with each other, especially in this new modern era. Most recently, Simone Biles expressed her desire in attending a race to watch Lewis Hamilton. Simone Biles and Lewis Hamilton have been widely considered the ‘GOAT’ in their respective sports, but their relationship goes way back as well. Both are prominent figures in advocating mental health, and the Brit has publicly spoken about her accomplishments, and even backed her during the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, where the gymnast unfortunately had to withdraw from the competition. Simone Biles made an unbelievable return at the Paris Olympics, winning three gold medals, including an all-around-title while also leading team USA to a gold medal in the women’s gymnastics team final. This incredible comeback was marked by her focus on overcoming past mental health issues, such as ‘twisties’ which affected her during the last Olympics. Simone Biles speaks on supporting Lewis Hamilton Over the past few years, both athletes have shown to have a mutual respect and admiration of each other’s accomplishments, be it during events or on social media. Simon Biles revealed that she does not follow Formula One, but would certainly love to be in the stands to witness Lewis Hamilton. “I actually do not,” she said when asked if she watches F1. “Lewis is great and I want to go out to one of his races. So I’ve been talking to him about that. I really wanted to go to the one in Austin, but unfortunately, I’m on tour, but I do wish I could go to one of his races.” said the superstar Olympian (via her Instagram live). Since F1 races happen all over the world, Simone Biles will also need to check her calendar as to which race she could attend. However, with the increased number of races happening in the United States, Simone Biles could very well visit a circuit or two. “Told him to send me his schedule so we could see the next one. I mean obviously they’re all around the world so we’re gonna have to make a trip,” concluded the 27-year-old. Lewis Hamilton has shown to be a huge supporter of women in sports, and has actively tried to tackle the lack of diversity in motorsport. The latest Ferrari signing definitely would not mind some extra support, as he owes the American gymnast a weekend at the races. Also Read: “That’s not my problem either” : Max Verstappen responds to Lewis Hamilton’s ‘act like a world champion’ claim

Mikel Arteta Arsenal
Formula 1

“I’m sad that Emile is leaving us” : Mikel Arteta dejected over academy player’s departure

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“I’m sad that Emile is leaving us” : Mikel Arteta dejected over academy player’s departure Mikel Arteta has recently expressed his sorrowness towards the exit of one of Arsenal’s best academy players, Emile Smith Rowe. It is no secret that ever since the introduction of Mikel Arteta, the team has been steadily improving over the past seasons. If not for the genius of Pep Guardiola, Arsenal would have been back-to-back Premier League champions by now. Many players are wanting to join the Spaniard’s project, but building a new squad comes at a cost.  Emile Smith Rowe, who made his senior debut in 2018, cemented his place as an attacking midfielder while initially joining the first team dynamics. Smith Rowe was regarded as one of the best young talents of English football, earning him praises for his vision, technical ability and work rate. When Mikel Arteta joined in 2019, Smith Rowe was consistently in his plans, and also earned the valuable number ‘10’ shirt, proclaiming his spot on the first team.  But the sudden emergence of current Arsenal team captain Martin Odegaard, including new signings like Fabio Viera, Jorginho and Declan Rice saw Smith Rowe lose his first team spot. He fell down the pecking order, becoming a benchwarmer, which ultimately led to his departure from the club. Mikel Arteta had nothing but respect and showcased great compassion towards Smithe Rowe and what he has done for the club. “Emile’s commitment, attitude and energy every day was first class, always stepping up when the team needed him. He came into the first team and was instrumental during a difficult moment for us. He created an important impression, with his strong performances making our supporters proud. I’m sad that Emile is leaving us, but excited for him to take this new opportunity at this stage of his career, when he needs to be starting matches and playing regularly.” said Arteta. Emile Smith Rowe completes move to Fulham for £34m Mikel Arteta and Emile Smith Rowe parted ways in good terms, as both mutually agreed that the youngster needs more playing time at this age, which he was unable to get at his boyhood club. Arsenal and Fulham reached an agreement for a total package of £34m (£27m + £7m add-ons) as reported initially by Fabrizio Romano.  Smith Rowe’s first words as new Fulham player were: “Listening to the project, speaking to the manager, I think it’s an exciting project for me, and definitely the perfect step for my career going forward.” The feelings inside Arsenal club were quite emotional as players and staff showed gratitude while fans on social media reminisced his memories at the club, as Smithe Rowe played his whole career at Arsenal. Even sporting director Edu had heartfelt words for Smithe Rowe. “Emile is loved by us all at the club. He has been with us for many years, and we are so proud that he has developed through our academy system into our first team. It has been a positive collaboration to find the right place for Emile, where he will continue to grow and make his mark on the Premier League.” said Edu. Needless to say, Emile Smith Rowe’s presence will definitely be missed in the Arsenal locker room, as he embarks on a fresh Premier League journey. Also Read: “114 points”! If we do that, we win the league for sure: ” Mikel Arteta on what Arsenal can do to topple Manchester City

Lewis Hamilton
Formula 1

“Lewis Hamilton brings his own personal baggage” : Ferrari Team Principal describes importance of cultural mix

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“Lewis Hamilton brings his own personal baggage” : Ferrari Team Principal describes importance of cultural mix Talks were to surely continue all summer when one of the greatest F1 drivers, Lewis Hamilton switched teams in order to fulfill his childhood dream of racing for Ferrari. This also helped him in reuniting with Ferrari’s team principal Frederic Vasseur, with whom he has a vivid history with since his junior racing days. Frederic Vasseur has been seemingly optimistic about the signing of Lewis Hamilton, and has not shied away from expressing his excitement over it. The Ferrari boss firmly believes the addition of Briton can bring about a new change culturally, all while receiving the much-needed experience and ‘personal baggage’ of seven-time champion. Vasseur, who knows Hamilton’s qualities, and apart from his seven F1 titles, acknowledges his experience in working with top teams such as Mercedes and McLaren. He believes the veteran can boost the whole team’s confidence by motivating and pushing them to further heights, not just on track but off the track as well. “One thing that is valid for Lewis, but also for the engineers, is that it is important to have a cultural mix, with people from different backgrounds, experiences and education. Hamilton brings his own personal baggage,” said the Ferrari team principal, as quoted by the Mirror UK. “Charles can learn a lot from Lewis” : Fred Vasseur aims for a positive dynamic and winning mindset Lewis Hamilton has certainly shown no signs of slowing down as he achieved a record-breaking ninth victory at the British Grand Prix at Silverstone, marking his first win since 2021. He also set a new record for the most wins at a single circuit. The Briton and his new team will surely hope his form continues onto the 2025 season as well. Lewis Hamilton’s newest teammate Charles Leclerc is focused on building on his past successes ever since joining Ferrari as a full-time driver in 2019. Although, Lewis Hamilton has a record of clashing with previous teammates (most notably Fernando Alonso at McLaren), Vasseur admits that he has no concern over this matter right now. The Frenchman believes that the storied career of the veteran can push Charles Leclerc to the next gear and greatly benefit on having him on the team. “They are at different points in their careers. Charles can learn a lot from Lewis, who has 18 seasons of Formula 1 under his belt and has gained a huge amount of experience. I am sure that their relationship will be positive and this will create a beneficial dynamic for the team.” Were the exact words from the Ferrari team principal. Safe to say, both Ferrari drivers are set to continue to make waves in the F1 world, be it for setting up greater standards or solidifying their place on the team. Also Read: “That’s not my problem either” : Max Verstappen responds to Lewis Hamilton’s ‘act like a world champion’ claim

Toto Wolff
Formula 1

“I’ve always seen a driver’s departure as a new opportunity for the team” : Toto Wolff on Lewis Hamilton’s Mercedes exit

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“I’ve always seen a driver’s departure as a new opportunity for the team” : Toto Wolff on Lewis Hamilton’s Mercedes exit Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff remains optimistic despite the departure of seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton next season. The Briton announced earlier this season that he would join Ferrari after the end of the 2024 season, after spending over a decade at Mercedes. Toto Wolff believes that every departure brings about a fresh opportunity, which he hopes is the case this time around. Lewis Hamilton won six titles whilst his time at the Silver Arrows, winning all of them in his first eight seasons here. Mercedes remain one of the only four teams to finalize their pairing for the 2025 season, as they are yet to decide as to who would race alongside George Russell. Toto Wolff revealed that F1 prodigy Kimi Antonelli is their first choice option, but they are also scanning the market currently. “I’ve always seen a driver’s departure as a new opportunity for the team. Change is good and you have to embrace it,” Wolff told Autosport Wereld. “The criteria for our next driver is simple: we want the best driver available and, at the moment, my first option is Kimi Antonelli,” he added. Toto Wolff says Max Verstappen joining Mercedes in the near future is unlikely Toto Wolff has expressed his desire to sign three-time world champion and Red Bull driver Max Verstappen. The Austrian boss accepts that signing him for the 2025 season might sound a little too ambitious, however, they will not give up on him just yet. Carlos Sainz was another name rumored to join Mercedes earlier. However, Toto Wolff clarified that they are not looking to sign the Spaniard. “At the moment, my first option is Kimi. An alternative scenario is of course Verstappen, but atm that doesn’t seem realistic” “I will continue to observe the market. I am not sure how things will evolve further at Red Bull,” Wolff said. All is not well in the Mercedes garage at the moment as Red Bull have been caught up by rivals this season. Max Verstappen has not claimed a race win in the last four races heading to the summer break, despite leading the championship. Moreover, war of words between the Dutchman’s father Jos Verstappen and Red Bull team principal Christian Horner raises several eyebrows. Also Read: “That’s not my problem either” : Max Verstappen responds to Lewis Hamilton’s ‘act like a world champion’ claim

Formula 1

“That’s not my problem either” : Max Verstappen responds to Lewis Hamilton’s ‘act like a world champion’ claim

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“That’s not my problem either” : Max Verstappen responds to Lewis Hamilton’s ‘act like a world champion’ claim Max Verstappen has responded to Lewis Hamilton’s remarks earlier this week. The seven-time world champion made some comments on the Dutchman’s conduct in the press, stating that he should act like a world champion. The reigning champion has hit back at the comments, stating that everyone is entitled to have their own opinion. Lewis Hamilton’s remarks came on the back of their crash at the Hungarian GP last weekend, where the duo were racing for a P3 finish. The Dutchman finished P5 as a result of the crash, as he has now gone three races without a victory. Max Verstappen seemed pretty angry on the radio throughout the race, as he was unhappy with his team’s strategy. Going back to his comments on Lewis Hamilton’s remark, Max Verstappen stated that it’s not his task to dwell on such incidents for a long time. “You know what it is, everyone can have their opinion,” Verstappen said. “That’s all fine, but I can’t do anything with that. That’s not my problem either. You don’t have to dwell on it for very long either. It’s all resolved and we’ll just get on with it,” said Verstappen. “It was nice to be in Monaco” : Max Verstappen Max Verstappen stated that it was nice to be back home in Monaco for a while before the Belgian GP. The Dutchman has been heavily criticized for his conduct during the previous race weekend, however, he stated that such things do not bother him. “Everyone has their own opinion, of course, and they all just do their thing. I go home, I do my thing. It was nice to be in Monaco for a while, too,” said Verstappen. Max Verstappen has taken a 10-place engine grid penalty at the Belgian GP, which means that he will have to make up a lot of places to end up on the podium. His teammate Sergio Perez will be expected to step up for his team, and have a good qualifying session on Saturday. Also Read: “Act like a World Champion” : Lewis Hamilton takes a dig at Max Verstappen after Hungarian GP antics

Formula 1

“Act like a World Champion” : Lewis Hamilton takes a dig at Max Verstappen after Hungarian GP antics

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“Act like a World Champion” : Lewis Hamilton takes a dig at Max Verstappen after Hungarian GP antics Lewis Hamilton and Max Verstappen seemed to have reignited their rivalry at the 2024 Hungarian GP last weekend. The two drivers had a collision in the final stages of the race, with Max Verstappen chasing a P3 finish. However, the Dutchman could only finish P5 after his clash with Lewis Hamilton costed him a couple of places. Max Verstappen was very grumpy during the Hungarian GP, as was heard during his interactions on the team radio. He also seemed to be annoyed with his team’s strategy, which he believes cost him the race victory. After the race, Max Verstappen also had a couple of heated interviews, where he blamed Lewis Hamilton for the crash. Lewis Hamilton took a jibe at Max Verstappen in the press conference of the Belgian GP, stating that he should act like a world champion. He did not take his name directly, but his comments were intended for the Red Bull driver. “You have to be a team leader, a team member. Maybe not such a team leader but just always remember you’re a team-mate with lots of people and you have to act like a World Champion,” said Lewis Hamilton, as quoted by Planet F1. Lewis Hamilton surprised by Max Verstappen penalty decision Lewis Hamilton stated that he was pretty surprised by the stewards’ decision to not award a penalty to Max Verstappen for causing the crash. However, he put it down to a racing incident for now, but plans to have a conversation with the stewards in the due course. “Yes. Very much so. I was really, really surprised by it. I think already I was very relaxed about the situation just saying: ‘Look, it’s just a racing incident, let’s just move on. But considering one car was in control and one car was not in control at the time. Obviously, when all the wheels are locked, you’re not in control,” said Hamilton. “And if you look at the replay, at the end of the whole move I’m very, very far from the apex – there’s a lot of room on the right-hand side – so I was very, very surprised. That will be a question when I speak to [the stewards] at some stage.” Frustrations seem to be growing for Max Verstappen and Red Bull at the moment. The Dutchman has not win a race after the Spanish GP, finishing outside the podium places in Austria and in Hungary last week. Meanwhile, for Red Bull, Sergio Perez’s performances have not done any favors as McLaren are within touching distance of the reigning champions in the Constructors championship. Also Read: Max Verstappen blames Lewis Hamilton for Hungary crash: “You cannot do that when someone has committed to the inside”

Formula 1

Max Verstappen blames Lewis Hamilton for Hungary crash: “You cannot do that when someone has committed to the inside”

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Max Verstappen blames Lewis Hamilton for Hungary crash: “You cannot do that when someone has committed to the inside” Max Verstappen was left fuming as his Hungarian GP ended in a disaster. On a day when nothing seemed to go the Dutchman’s way, he suffered a late collision with Lewis Hamilton. This meant that the Red Bull driver could finish only P5, with Lewis Hamilton hanging on to claim a P3 finish. Max Verstappen was chasing the seven-time world champion for a P3 finish. However, just as Dutchman went for a move, the two cars came together, as the Red Bull seemed to have been air-bone for a second or two. Both drivers have been summoned to the FIA for the crash. Max Verstappen remained adamant that it was Lewis Hamilton’s fault that caused the crash, as he moved under the braking zone. The Dutchman stated that he had the inside line, and Lewis Hamilton should not have moved so abruptly. “I went for a move that was on but in the middle of the braking zone, when I’m committed to the move, he just keeps moving right. If I hadn’t turned while braking straight I would have made contact with him. I lock up because he just keeps turning to the right,” said Max, as quoted by the Mirror. “People made a lot about what happened in Austria, ‘It was not correct, blah blah blah’. But that was on the initial move and then you just brake straight, but now it’s not an initial move, during the braking zone he keeps turning right,” he added. “You cannot do that when someone has committed to the inside. That’s why I locked up, otherwise we would have collided anyway because he turned in on me. We’ll see. I went for a move that was fully on and I don’t think I braked too late, but we came together.” Lewis Hamilton says crash with Max Verstappen was a racing incident On the contrary, Lewis Hamilton did not seem to be blaming either of the two drivers for the crash. He believes that it was a pure racing incident. The Briton stated that he moved a bit, however there was enough space on the inside for Max Verstappen to make a move. “For me, it was a racing incident. Ultimately, he was much quicker and sent it. I moved a little bit to defend but I left enough space on the inside but then he locked up and couldn’t turn. So he came at a different trajectory and hit my wheel. If he was under control, he would have gone by,” said Hamilton. Lewis Hamilton claimed his second consecutive podium finish, as he won his first ever race in almost three years at the British GP a couple of weeks ago. The Briton was delighted by his team’s progress this season, as he claimed that the Silver Arrows were even struggling to finish in top 10 in the first couple of races. “The year started out with us struggling to finish in the top 10. So for us to be moving forward and be in the mix really feels great. Ultimately, we don’t have the pace of the McLarens or the Red Bulls, but we’re there and progressing and we have to keep on improving. We do need to bring more and I hope at some stage we can have the sheer pace of the guys ahead. If we do, then George and I will be able to really stick it to them,” said Hamilton. Also Read: “I was surprised by Lewis Hamilton’s congratulations because he had never written to me” : Carlos Alcaraz on receiving text from seven-time F1 champion

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