The 2023 Formula 1 title may already be out of reach for seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton, as he adheres to the old adage of “If you ain’t first, you’re last.”
Hamilton secured a podium finish at Silverstone this month, coming in third behind the seemingly unstoppable Max Verstappen and compatriot Lando Norris.
He currently sits fourth in the championship standings, with Mercedes fighting to maintain their position above Aston Martin while Red Bull dominates the Constructors’ race.
For Mercedes, the eventual prize money gathered could prove critical, considering their struggles to adapt their car to the new era of regulations.
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In fact, Hamilton has not claimed victory since the race in Saudi Arabia on December 5, 2021, marking the longest winless streak in his career.
However, while every position should matter to the British team this season, Hamilton, 38, has made a surprising confession that may risk angering his boss, Toto Wolff.
“I really don’t care what position I finish in this year,” Hamilton revealed.
“I’m just focused on trying to give the best development information for the team, working with the guys to make sure we steer this car in the right way and when we start the first race or the first test next year we hit the ground running.
“We don’t have bouncing, we have the rear downforce we need, and the car’s efficient, and we can keep up with everybody, that’s my dream.
“So I’m looking further down the road.”
These comments come at a questionable time, as Hamilton has yet to secure a contract extension, with his current deal set to expire at the end of this year.
Despite his seemingly defeatist outlook, the F1 icon still appears to be targeting a stronger challenge in 2024.
“It’s definitely been a much more positive year for us. I think we’ve made bigger strides,” Hamilton reflected on recent car developments.
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“We’ve had some good results on the podium, but it’s really hard to predict where we’re going with the steps that we’re starting to take.”
Nevertheless, Mercedes faces a significant gap to close in their pursuit of Christian Horner’s Red Bull team.
Verstappen currently holds a commanding lead, sitting 99 points ahead of teammate Sergio Perez, with the duo having secured victory in all ten races thus far.