Lewis Hamilton has expressed his willingness to forgo winning races in Formula 1 this season if it means Mercedes can focus on returning to the title fight in 2024. Despite making progress throughout the 2022 season, Mercedes faced setbacks in 2023, and Hamilton believes their upgrades for the W14 will be crucial in challenging the dominant Red Bull team.
Hamilton expects a step forward with the next upgrade package, set to arrive at his home race in Silverstone. He believes that by the end of the year, Mercedes can catch up to Red Bull, who are already focusing on next year’s car due to their substantial lead in the championship.
While Mercedes’ recent form suffered in qualifying for the Austrian Grand Prix, with Hamilton starting in P5, he remains optimistic about the progress being made. He acknowledges the hard work done by the team and looks forward to the small steps in the right direction.
Hamilton hasn’t won a race since the 2021 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix and went without a win throughout the entire 2022 season. However, he made it clear that he would gladly endure another winless season if it means Mercedes can concentrate on returning to the championship fight in 2024. He emphasized his priority of winning the championship next year rather than individual race victories in the current season.
Hamilton currently sits in fourth place in the Drivers’ standings, with Max Verstappen comfortably leading the championship.
