Lewis Hamilton, the seven-time Formula 1 champion, is gearing up for his final season with Mercedes, expressing his determination to guide the team back to the summit of the sport.
Hamilton, who will join Ferrari in 2025, highlighted his unwavering focus and motivation as Mercedes unveiled their new car, marking the end of an era characterized by unparalleled success.
Reflecting on his remarkable journey with Mercedes, Hamilton stated, “I feel the most motivated and focused I’ve ever been. I never thought at this point in my life I’d have hunger like I do now.”
The 39-year-old remains resolute in his quest for glory, fueled by a desire to rectify the disappointment of Abu Dhabi 2021, where he narrowly missed out on securing an eighth drivers’ title due to controversial race management.
Hamilton emphasized the significance of concluding his tenure with Mercedes on a high note, describing it as a dream scenario. With an illustrious partnership spanning nearly a decade, Hamilton aims to help Mercedes reclaim their position as frontrunners in the fiercely competitive F1 grid.
Mercedes Team Principal Toto Wolff echoed Hamilton’s sentiments, labeling their new car a “complete relaunch” as they strive to bounce back from two challenging seasons. The team has undergone significant changes, both aerodynamically and mechanically, in a bid to enhance performance and address past shortcomings.
Wolff outlined the team’s objective to lead the midfield pack and narrow the gap to dominant rivals Red Bull, emphasizing the importance of introspection and improvement.
Hamilton’s teammate, George Russell, echoed the sentiment of renewed optimism within the team, acknowledging the lessons learned from recent setbacks. Russell expressed confidence in Mercedes’ ability to overcome obstacles and deliver a competitive car for the upcoming season.
Mercedes’ recent struggles have been attributed to various factors, including a lack of predictability and rear grip. Wolff emphasized the team’s commitment to providing Hamilton and Russell with a car that is not only fast but also easier to drive, addressing key deficiencies from previous iterations.
As pre-season testing approaches in Bahrain, anticipation is high for Mercedes’ resurgence in the championship battle. With Hamilton leading the charge in his final chapter with the team, Mercedes aims to reassert their dominance and bid farewell to their star driver in style.
The Formula 1 season kicks off in Bahrain on 2 March, promising an exhilarating journey filled with drama, excitement, and the relentless pursuit of excellence.