Hamilton: “We are facing a big mountain”

It is a photo from the Mercedes garage that says a lot and evokes memories: the seven-time world champion Sir Lewis Hamilton (38) is speaking and next to him, the German reserve driver Mick Schumacher (23) listens in awe.

Of course, neither of them will reveal their secret thoughts. The Briton, who has not won in 24 races, will certainly consider quitting if he does not take the world title again in 2023. Mick has to hope that a seat will become available soon somewhere and somehow. He is officially the third man at McLaren-Mercedes.

Hamilton–Schumi 82:72

The names Hamilton and Schumi are closely linked. When Mick’s father Michael made a surprise return to Formula 1 in 2010 when the Mercedes factory team made a comeback at the age of 41, Hamilton was still driving for McLaren-Mercedes.

When Schumi had to give up his place in the World Championship in 13th place after three years with only one podium (Valencia 2012) under pressure from Mercedes, his successor was already determined: Lewis Hamilton. And to this day he thanks him for the work he did to build up his prominent predecessor with 6 world titles and 82 victories!

“When I’m Gone, I’m Gone”

In comparison, Michael Schumacher left Ferrari after eleven years with five titles and 72 victories – and retired for three years (2007 to 2009). Until racing fever washed him back onto the track.

If Hamilton leaves one day, he won’t experience a relapse: “When I’m gone, I’m gone!” And just like Schumi, he is now with the same team for the eleventh season!

Bad acceleration

The tests here in Bahrain have not made Hamilton happy yet. The annoying bumping over the asphalt has disappeared. But the Mercedes steers badly, hardly comes out of the corners. Will this really change on other routes?

The 310-time GP starter (Schumi had 307 races) says only: “We are facing a big mountain. We don’t know where the journey is going yet. But we remain optimistic.” At Mercedes you have to ask yourself: haven’t they lost too many good people to the competition in the past three years?

Source : Blick