Lewis Hamilton shook the world when he decided to announce his backup from Mercedes. However, when repeatedly asked what his plans are for next year, he kept saying that his focus is to finish this year on a high and doesn’t want anything distracting him from that task. When he topped the Free Practice session, many fans like myself were reeling in the hope that despite the news he is going to win it for Mercedes. However, the grid that’s been set for the season opener Bahrain GP has only been kind to one Mercedes driver and it is not Lewis Hamilton. And he knows it and has even found what or who to pin the blame on.

“It was fun. Not the result that I wanted. These things happen.” When asked about the lack of pace in the car, Lewis said, “I won’t say that I’m surprised [he didn’t have the pace]. I’m always taking risks, so I went in a direction with my setup. Even from FP3, it was possibly not the right one, but I think, hopefully, the right one for the race.”

WATCH THIS STORY: Lewis Hamilton remains unwavering in his determination to halt Max Verstappen’s dominance, despite enduring significant neglect from the FIA

Following into the footsteps of George Russell, Lewis Hamilton looks at the bigger picture

Torchbearer of positivity, Lewis Hamilton, after accepting the shortcomings, echoed his teammates’ words to praise the hard work of the team. He acknowledged Russell’s result and the team’s hard work during the post-Quali interview.

Lewis said, “It was not the greatest of feelings. George’s result is a testament to the hard work done over winter, and it ignites the fire within us drivers. We were on the same setup yesterday, but I went left and he went right. I felt more comfortable with more fuel.”

WATCH THIS STORY: Lewis Hamilton remains unwavering in his determination to halt Max Verstappen’s dominance, despite enduring significant neglect from the FIA

Do you think Lewis can bag a podium in the race tomorrow?