Mercedes Blamed for Lewis Hamilton’s “Drop in Motivation” After George Russell Amasses 8–1 Qualifying Lead

For fans and critics, Lewis Hamilton’s current form is an eyesore. Something feels totally off about the seven-time World Champion’s driving. Some blame Mercedes for ruining Hamilton’s performance. While some think, Hamilton is ‘over’. He hasn’t won a single Grand Prix race since December 2021. The Ferrari-bound Briton’s desire for an eighth title is still alive. In his last year with Mercedes, fans hoped to see his last dance with the Silver Arrows, but unfortunately, that hasn’t happened yet. Ex-McLaren engineer Marc Priestley asserts that Lewis Hamilton still has more to achieve in his career!

A quick info-bit: Marc Priestley, was McLaren F1’s mechanic for over ten years. He reached the pinnacle of his career by winning the world championship with Lewis Hamilton in 2008. Priestley has recently opened up about his opinion on Lewis Hamilton’s future in F1, precisely with Ferrari. In the latest interview with Spanish media MARCA, he said: “I still don’t think Lewis is done.” Despite recent criticisms from fans and analysts about Hamilton’s form and Mercedes’ role in it, Priestley remains optimistic about the seven-time World Champion’s future. According to Priestley, it is easy for anyone to “look at the recent results at Mercedes and say that George beats him week after week.” Russell has consistently outperformed Hamilton in the present season. An 8-1 clear sheet for Russell! As unbelievable as it sounds, it is absolutely true. But why this sudden dip in performance?

Critics hold Mercedes responsible for Hamilton’s perceived decline despite his multiple World Championships. Priestley also blamed Mercedes, saying, “I think there’s possibly a drop in motivation because he’s been for a very long period, after Abu Dhabi 2021, without the results he was used to.” Mercedes have struggled to produce a better car capable of winning races. The W15 has been a difficult machine in the ongoing season, although the Canadian Grand Prix showed promising results.

Hamilton once declared he’d be with Mercedes until his last breath. But as time went by, he had nothing else to offer to the team and vice versa. Thus, he decided to go to Ferrari. What does the future hold for Hamilton at Ferrari? Here’s what Priestly thinks:

Lewis Hamilton’s arrival at Maranello in 2025 holds promises

Marc Priestley thinks Lewis Hamilton is arriving at Ferrari at an incredible time. “Because Ferrari, like McLaren, is on its way back to the front and success,” Priestley pointed out. Fans might witness a rejuvenated Hamilton capable of achieving stunning results. And with the rumored arrival of Adrian Newey at Maranello, one can hope to see a title in 2027 possibly. If this happens then it will be the first title after Kimi Raikkonen in 2007.

“And as I just said about Lewis Hamilton, imagine if you have a Ferrari that is resurgent and in top form under the new leadership of Fred Vasseur, which is great, a Lewis Hamilton next to a Charles Leclerc, and an Adrian Newey against a major regulation change. It’s a delightful prospect, isn’t it?” asked a curious Marc Priestley. A speculation for the future and a heart full of hopes. The fans of Lewis Hamilton have faith in their idol’s abilities. After all, he is the only one who has been able to stand on the same pedestal as the legend Michael Schumacher himself!

As the season progresses, fans eagerly anticipate watching their idol, Lewis Hamilton, unleash his “Hammer Time” behind the wheel. Despite recent criticisms and speculations about his move to Ferrari, figures like Marc Priestley stress that Hamilton’s journey is far from finished. Joining forces with Charles Leclerc at Ferrari sets the stage for a potential resurgence. Whether this partnership results in another championship remains uncertain, but Hamilton’s unwavering commitment to excellence guarantees his lasting legacy in the sport, inspiring generations of racing enthusiasts worldwide.