Hamilton... back at negative claim from ex-Mercedes...

Hamilton… back at negative claim from ex-Mercedes… Read More

Lewis Hamilton, the seven-time Formula 1 World Champion, has recently dismissed criticism from Philipp Brändle, a former Mercedes engineer. The controversy arose after Brändle suggested that Hamilton loses his motivation when he believes he has no chance of winning a race. Hamilton, who has been with Mercedes since 2013, refuted these claims during the Dutch Grand Prix weekend, asserting that he has been giving his all throughout the season, despite the challenges with the car’s performance.

In an interview with Motorsport-Total, Philipp Brändle, who worked with Mercedes, questioned Hamilton’s attitude during races where victory seemed unlikely. Brändle commented, “When he [Hamilton] feels that the car isn’t performing well or that he has no chance of winning, he unfortunately lets himself down a little. That’s a real shame because when he knows he has even the slightest chance of success, he can drive at 200 per cent.”

This statement cast a shadow on Hamilton’s reputation as one of the most determined and competitive drivers on the grid. Brändle’s remarks implied that Hamilton’s performance is heavily influenced by his confidence in the car, suggesting that the British driver may not always push to his full potential when the odds are stacked against him.

Hamilton did not let these comments go unnoticed. When asked about Brändle’s statement during the Dutch Grand Prix weekend, Hamilton firmly rejected the claims. “I read some comment from someone earlier that said I don’t drive 200% when the car is not right,” Hamilton said in an interview with Sky Sports. “But I’ve been working my butt off all year and giving it everything, but it’s just not good enough. As the car is progressing, I’m more and more at one with it.”

Hamilton’s response highlighted his dedication to the sport, even when the car’s performance isn’t optimal. He emphasized that despite the struggles Mercedes has faced this season, he continues to give his best effort every time he steps into the cockpit. His words underline his determination to remain competitive, regardless of the circumstances.

Hamilton’s rebuttal is supported by his recent form before the summer break. Following a challenging start to the season, the British driver found a resurgence in pace, notably after the Canadian Grand Prix when Mercedes introduced upgrades to their car. Although the upgrades initially brought disappointment in Canada, they eventually allowed Hamilton to perform at a higher level in subsequent races.

In the five races leading up to the summer break, Hamilton secured four podium finishes, demonstrating his ability to maximize the car’s potential. Among these podiums were two wins, marking his return to the top step for the first time in nearly 1,000 days. This streak of strong performances underlines Hamilton’s capacity to deliver results, even when the car isn’t entirely to his liking.

Hamilton now turns his attention to the upcoming Italian Grand Prix, where he will once again race in front of the passionate Tifosi. This will be his second time competing at Monza since it was announced that he would join Ferrari in 2025. The news of Hamilton’s future move to Ferrari has generated significant excitement among fans and the media, with many eager to see how the partnership between the legendary driver and the iconic Italian team will unfold.

While Hamilton remains focused on the present season with Mercedes, the upcoming race in Italy will offer a glimpse of what the future holds. Racing in front of the Tifosi at Monza is always a unique experience, and with his Ferrari move on the horizon, it adds an extra layer of anticipation to the weekend. However, Hamilton will undoubtedly be aiming to put on a strong performance for Mercedes and continue building momentum as the season progresses.

Hamilton’s response to the criticism from Brändle demonstrates his unwavering commitment to success in Formula 1. Despite the challenges he has faced with the car this season, the seven-time World Champion remains determined to give his best in every race. As the season continues and Mercedes’ car improves, Hamilton will be looking to capitalize on his recent form and add to his tally of victories before his eventual move to Ferrari. The upcoming Italian Grand Prix provides another opportunity for Hamilton to prove his doubters wrong and remind the paddock why he is considered one of the greatest drivers in the sport’s history.