Lewis Hamilton admits he nearly quit Mercedes after disastrous Brazilian GP
Seven-time Formula One world champion Lewis Hamilton has opened up about his frustrations during the Brazilian Grand Prix, a weekend he described as one of the most challenging of his career.
The Mercedes driver, who will move to Ferrari at the end of the season, hinted at the emotional toll of a tough campaign and nearly ended his tenure with the team ahead of schedule.
Sports News Blitz writer Noah Ngcobo delves further into Hamilton’s reflections on a difficult season and his mental reset as he aims to finish strong before embarking on a new chapter with Ferrari.
Hamilton reflects on frustration following sorrowful team radio comments
After finishing a distant 10th in Sao Paulo, a circuit where he has previously thrived, Hamilton expressed his disappointment over team radio.
“If this is the last time I get to perform, it’s a shame it wasn’t great, but I’m grateful for you,” he stated.
This sparked speculation about his immediate future. His remarks led some to believe he was considering stepping away from the final three races of the season.
Speaking in Las Vegas, Hamilton clarified his comments, admitting that his frustration was overwhelming.
“In the moment, that’s how I felt,” he told the media gathered in Sin City for this weekend’s Las Vegas Grand Prix.
“I didn’t want to come back after that weekend. But I think that’s only natural when you’ve had a season like this.
“It’s frustrating, but I’m here now, standing strong, and I’m ready to give it everything for these last few races.”
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Brazil struggles highlight season-long challenges
Hamilton’s struggles in Brazil were evident as he failed to reach Q3 in qualifying and finished over 50 seconds behind race winner Max Verstappen.
The performance marked a low point in a season that has seen him endure difficulties with the Mercedes car.
Despite the setbacks, he emphasised his commitment to finishing his 12-year partnership with Mercedes on a high note.
The 39-year-old also addressed comments from Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff, who suggested that Hamilton’s decision to leave the team reflected the natural "shelf life" of a driver in F1.
Hamilton dismissed the idea that he has anything to prove, focusing instead on his mental and physical preparation.
“I feel great, probably the best I’ve felt all year,” he said. “There’s been so much said about me over the years, but nothing can take me down. I’m still here, still fighting, and I’ve got a team I genuinely love.”
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Hamilton eyes strong finish
Reflecting on the challenges of the season, Hamilton revealed how he rebounded mentally during the two-week break after Brazil.
“I’ve been working on a lot of exciting projects, including the F1 movie and collaborations like the one with Tyler The Creator.
“It’s these things that help me reset and come back stronger after tough weekends,” he added.
With three races left in the season, Hamilton sits seventh in the Drivers’ Championship, narrowly trailing team-mate George Russell.
The Brit is determined to avoid his worst-ever finish in a championship and is focused on delivering strong results for his team before joining Ferrari in 2025.
“It’s been a tough season, but I’m here to give it my all,” he concluded. “I still love this job, and I want to ensure I leave Mercedes on the best possible note.
“If the car holds up, I’m confident we can finish strong.”
Hamilton’s resilience and unwavering determination remain defining traits as he prepares to close this chapter of his illustrious career and embark on a new journey with Ferrari.
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