JUST IN: Mercedes make position clear on Lewis Hamilton ending

Mercedes Clarify Hamilton’s Position After Cryptic Radio Message at Brazilian Grand Prix

Lewis Hamilton’s cryptic radio message following his 10th-place finish at the Brazilian Grand Prix has ignited speculation about his future with Mercedes and his immediate plans for the final three races of the 2024 Formula 1 season. However, Mercedes has made it clear there are no plans for Hamilton to sit out the Las Vegas Grand Prix or any of the remaining races this year, squashing rumors that the seven-time world champion could end his season prematurely.

Hamilton’s struggles at the Interlagos circuit were evident throughout the weekend, culminating in one of his worst performances in recent memory. After being knocked out in the first phase of qualifying for the second time in three races, the British driver battled through Sunday’s rain-lashed event, finishing 10th and scoring just one point. His performance was further underscored by the fact that his teammate George Russell managed to finish fourth, 27 seconds ahead of Hamilton, despite starting behind him on the grid.

“This was a disaster of a weekend, guys,” Hamilton said over team radio after crossing the finish line. “The worst the car has ever been. Thank you for contributing to try and great job to all the guys at the pit stop.”

But it was his next remark that caught attention: “If this is the last time I get to perform, it was a shame it wasn’t great, but (I am) grateful for you.” The cryptic tone of this message has led to widespread speculation about what Hamilton was referring to, with some fans and analysts suggesting that he might be hinting at an early end to his season or even his career with Mercedes.

One theory is that Hamilton’s comments were aimed at Mercedes staff who were present in Brazil but would not be traveling to the remaining rounds in Las Vegas, Qatar, and Abu Dhabi. As a key figure in the team, Hamilton has often expressed his gratitude for the people behind the scenes who contribute to Mercedes’ success, and his words may have been an acknowledgment of those team members.

Another possibility is that Hamilton was reflecting on his potential final race in Brazil for Mercedes, as rumors of his switch to Ferrari next season continue to swirl. While there has been no official confirmation of such a move, the ongoing speculation adds fuel to the idea that Hamilton’s tenure with the Silver Arrows could be coming to an end.

Despite the theories, Mercedes has made it clear that there are no plans for Hamilton to miss the upcoming Las Vegas Grand Prix or any of the remaining races this season. According to a statement provided to the PA news agency, the team has indicated that Hamilton will be present for the next round, quashing rumors of an early departure.

Hamilton’s frustration with the car’s performance in Brazil was evident in his post-race comments. “At least one car was behaving,” he said, referring to Russell’s performance. “It’s like a plank of wood. There’s no suspension. It’s just bouncing on the tires everywhere. Can’t get on the power anywhere… I could happily go take a holiday.”

Despite these frustrations, Hamilton remains committed to finishing the season, though his current position in the drivers’ standings is far from where he would want to be. He is seventh in the championship, 203 points behind leader Max Verstappen, and sits just behind Russell, who is sixth with two points more than Hamilton.

As Formula 1 prepares to make its debut at the Las Vegas Grand Prix, Hamilton will be eager to put his Brazilian disappointment behind him and end the season on a high note. While his hopes of securing a record-breaking eighth world title are out of reach this year, the 39-year-old remains one of the sport’s most competitive drivers and will look to bounce back in the final races of 2024.

For now, Mercedes and Hamilton have clarified their intent to complete the season together, putting to rest any speculation of an early exit. Fans and the F1 world will be closely watching how the British driver responds in Las Vegas as he seeks to close out a challenging season with a strong performance.