F1 News: Lewis Hamilton Opens Up On 2023 Struggles - "Draining To Maintain Positive Mindset"
Seven-time F1 champion Lewis Hamilton has candidly revealed his emotional exhaustion after a challenging Formula 1 season. Despite securing third in the Drivers' Championship, Hamilton described the year as "emotionally draining," reflecting the difficulties he and Mercedes faced.
Key Takeaways:
- Season Challenges: Hamilton endured a tough season with Mercedes, marking his second consecutive year without a win. His last victory was at the 2021 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix.
- Personal Struggles: Despite not feeling "burnt out," Hamilton expressed emotional drainage, particularly with the demanding logistics of the season. The final trips, such as from Las Vegas to Abu Dhabi, added to the strain.
- Maintaining Positivity: Hamilton highlighted the difficulty in staying positive amidst the season's challenges and the general negativity in the world, acknowledging the effort required to maintain a positive mindset.
Lewis Hamilton has opened up about the emotional toll of the 2023 Formula 1 season. The Mercedes driver, who last tasted victory at the 2021 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix, faced a year devoid of wins. This outcome was a stark contrast to the dominance he and his team, Mercedes, had previously exhibited. The introduction of new technical regulations significantly altered the competitive landscape, pushing Mercedes behind in the F1 pecking order.
Despite the team's struggles, Hamilton managed to secure a respectable third place in the Drivers' Championship. His teammate, George Russell, finished in eighth place. However, the season's end brought more relief than celebration for Hamilton. Speaking to the media, he shared:
“I’m not burnt out.
“I’d rather not keep going into the season but I think for me I’m just more emotionally drained at the end of the year.”
The physical and logistical demands of the season were a significant factor in Hamilton's exhaustion. The gruelling travel schedule, especially the difficult transition from Las Vegas to Abu Dhabi, was particularly challenging. Hamilton also touched upon the psychological aspect of his struggle, noting:
“It definitely has been so difficult for everybody here, all the teams moving from Las Vegas out to [Abu Dhabi]. I think it should be better next year. It’s obviously a very long season.
"I think really with all the negativity in the world as well, it’s been quite draining just to maintain a positive mindset through the year.”