Seven-time Formula 1 world champion Lewis Hamilton may have claimed his first pole position since the 2021 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix in Hungary but victory eluded him as he struggled to keep up with the pace of the Red Bulls and McLaren’s Lando Norris.
Mercedes, facing a challenge from McLaren’s recent surge in performance, has arguably dropped to be the third-fastest team on the grid, prompting frustration from Hamilton
Speaking to Sky Sports after the Hungarian Grand Prix, Hamilton raised concerns about the team’s performance, reiterating calls for improvements to the car.
“We generally have a bigger wing than some of the others, like the Red Bulls for example,” Hamilton explained.
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“But they seem to have more downforce from their floor.
“We have a lot of work to do. I am like a broken record.
“I’ve just gotta keep telling the guys ‘We need to go in that direction.’
“I would like to see that either with this year’s car or next year.”
Hamilton’s race in Hungary faced significant challenges from the start.
While his initial getaway wasn’t the worst, he faced a bit of wheelspin and was pushed wide by Max Verstappen, who managed to gain an advantage on the inside.
With his poor start, Verstappen easily jumped ahead, followed by both McLaren drivers
“Then after that, I just didn’t have the pace to keep up with the guys” Hamilton explained
The balance of the car was pretty awful on that first stint.
A lot of understeer, to snap oversteer, through corner balance – and I just couldn’t keep up with them.”
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The Hungarian Grand Prix, once again, allowed McLaren to highlight their renewed strength, as Lando Norris not only held off Mercedes but also secured a second consecutive podium finish.
Hamilton’s determination to guide the team in a new direction comes in light of McLaren’s resurgence, as they continue to challenge the established order of Formula 1.
Despite the setback in Hungary, Hamilton remains optimistic about the future development of Mercedes’ car and believes they can close the gap with their rivals, remaining hopeful that the team can find the right balance and make strides in their performance before it’s too late.