Lewis Hamilton claims it would’ve been the ‘worst feeling’ to leave Mercedes when the ‘chips were down’

Lewis Hamilton reassured that his reasons for leaving Mercedes wasn't due to their degrading performance during the ground-effect era.

Lewis Hamilton claims it would’ve been the ‘worst feeling’ to leave Mercedes when the ‘chips were down’

Lewis Hamilton (via IMAGO)

Lewis Hamilton deemed his exit from Mercedes before the beginning of the 2024 season. Brackley had been showcasing a massive slump in performance during the ground-effect era. However, in this season the German carmaker has already scored two consecutive race victories. Regardless, Hamilton’s reason to exit the team was different as the Briton noted that it would’ve been bad to leave the team at its lowest.

Mercedes scored a massive improvement in performance as compared to the beginning of the season. Lewis Hamilton finally scored his long-awaited victory after a gap of 945 days. However, speaking upon Mercedes’ recent struggles and his shocking switch to Ferrari, the 39-year-old had some concerns regarding leaving the team at the wrong time.

Hamilton reckoned that leaving Mercedes when the ‘chips were down’ would’ve been the ‘worst feeling’ for him. However, leaving the team when the performance is looking good and improving would’ve been a great thing. This way the Briton would have the feeling of contributing to improving the team’s performance. Additionally, the 39-year-old claimed that he was excited to join Ferrari in the coming season.

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I think leaving when the chips are down would be the worst feeling for me, but leaving when the chips are up, or on their way up, and I’ve been a part of helping progress this car to where it is today – that’s an amazing feeling, so I’m very proud of it and also excited for next year.
Lewis Hamilton said in a Spanish TV interview.
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Lewis Hamilton claims he will always be a ‘supporter and fan’ of Mercedes despite joining Ferrari

Lewis Hamilton has been with Mercedes ever since he was just 13 years old. Hamilton has seen a lot of ups and downs with Mercedes and some major championship victories. Brackley meant more than just a team for the seven-time world champion.

Toto Wolff and Lewis Hamilton
Toto Wolff and Lewis Hamilton (Via Imago)

Hence, Hamilton reckoned that he would always be a fan and supporter of Ferrari and continue to work hard with the crew in the 2024 season to end the season on a high.

I have been with Mercedes since I was 13. I will always be a fan and a supporter of them. My job right now is to work as hard as I can with the crew that I have to try and move and develop the car in the right direction. There are things I hopefully will have been a part of and I am proud of that.
Lewis Hamilton added.

Mercedes has started to gain control over their position in the standings after an improvement in performance. Brackley could potentially enter the competition for the top spot if they continue such performances. Regardless, the 2024 season is looking promising for a great battle securing the top spot towards the end of the season.

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