The winner of seven world championship titles in F1 has had to take a backseat this season. Lewis Hamilton’s streak of success stuttered since the night of the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix 2021 when he lost narrowly to Max Verstappen. And while Hamilton has been giving an admirable fight this season, he is certainly not enjoying the pinnacle spot he once had.
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However, despite this recent dip, Hamilton has been charmingly upbeat about it.
Lewis Hamilton sees it as a challenge
In an interview after the Italian Grand Prix, Lewis Hamilton commented on how he felt about having to struggle to the top now. He said the races are “A thousand times more enjoyable.”
“I remember when I started, my first go-kart was an old kart. It was all bent and buckled and we always had to start at the back with old tires and that’s what I’ve always enjoyed doing.”
“So, starting having those battles, it’s way more fun than starting first for example and pulling away. It’s a different challenge, but I much prefer battling with people.”
He added, “When you when you win it’s something completely different, and you feel proud for everybody. I love the idea of moving forward. So today I felt like I climbed up a ladder. Progress is a good thing.”
READ MORE: 103 GP Winner Lewis Hamilton Breaks Double Decade Long F1 Streak
It is truly commendable that Hamilton takes this approach to the situation. Treating it as a challenge rather than a setback is a beautiful and inspiring way of looking at things.
Hamilton comments on the Italian GP ending
Lewis Hamilton finished fifth in the Italian Grand Prix as the race concluded under a safety car. The ending brought back painful memories of Abu Dhabi in 2021 for many fans.
When asked how he felt about the ending, Hamilton had a lot to say about it. “I really enjoyed the battle with everyone, slowly working away with this car. It was definitely a challenge from the beginning.”
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Hamilton did express his frustration at the safety car that meant he could not take on Sainz, “Naturally just as a racer, you just want more time, I wanted to be able to challenge the Ferrari ahead of me and see if I could get another position.”
“But I think in hindsight it was probably a good ending. I’m just really grateful to have come back from the last row.”
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Despite the despair of Mercedes fans, Lewis Hamilton appears to have a refreshingly hopeful attitude and impressive sportsmanship. With only 35 points separating Mercedes and Ferrari for second place in the constructors’ championship, where do you think Mercedes will finish this season?