Hamilton Says He Doesn't Need To Prove Anything After Toto Wolff's Comments

Thursday, 21 November 2024 at 14:00

Lewis Hamilton responded to the comments made by his team principal, Toto Wolff, during the break between the Sao Paulo and Las Vegas Grand Prix.

Toto Wolff said during his appearance on the High-Performance Podcast that the reason he gave Lewis Hamilton only a 1+1 year contract (which resulted in his exit) was that everyone has a shelf life.

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This quote went viral on social media, and the Mercedes team principal later tried to clarify that the term "shelf life" wasn't meant for Hamilton specifically and that he believed the seven-time World Champion still had what it takes.

During the press day ahead of the 2024 Las Vegas Grand Prix, Sky Sports' Ted Kravitz approached Lewis Hamilton with the comments that came from his team principal and asked whether he feels like he has something to prove in the last three races of the season. The Mercedes F1 driver responded:

"No. I think just me being here, standing tall, I feel strong I've been training well. I feel great. Honestly, I feel like I'm in the best place I've been mentally, and considering how bad the last race was, I think that says enough."

"I've been around this game for a long time. There's been so many things that have been said. There have been so many microaggressions, and I'm not saying obviously from my boss (Toto) because he's been supportive all these years, and we've achieved a lot.."

"But I mean within the media and through all... Nothing can take me down. I'm still fighting, and I'm going to continue to push."

Hamilton's average finishing position since the summer break was P7. Following the race in Sao Paulo, the 39-year-old stated he had never had a worse car and compared it to a "plank of wood."

Although his car hasn't lately performed as he would like, the Mercedes F1 driver clarified he is still determined to deliver his best performance for the team.

"I've got a team that I generally still love. Even though I'm leaving, I want to make sure I give them the best I can in these next races. If they provide the car that wants to stay on track, then hopefully, we will have a better result."