Ahead of the Interlagos GP,  Lewis Hamilton is Optimistic About Being Competitive Again in the 2024 F1 Season

JAKARTA - Lewis Hamilton believes that next year he can come back stronger than before. He has even planned a winter training program to start his quest for an eighth F1 world title.

However, before that, the Mercedes driver hopes to return to the top of the podium in Brazil this weekend, which is the final sprint race of the season.

Last year, Hamilton finished second in the Sao Paulo Grand Prix at Interlagos, losing to teammate George Russell. This was  Mercedes' last victory.

"We achieved one-two positions but I plan to do better this weekend," said Hamilton, quoted by VOI from Reuters.

The 38-year-old Briton, who is the most successful driver in F1 history with 103 wins, has not claimed a win since 2021, but he remains optimistic about his future.

"Right now I'm already thinking about my winter. I'm already preparing my training camp," said Hamilton.

"It's not just about exercise, but also recovery, meditation, cleansing the body, going through all these processes and devoting time to them, as well as spending time with family and renewing energy.

"With all the experience I have, I think I should be able to do a better job every year. And I'm trying to win the title," he added.

The Interlagos Circuit, and Brazil, hold a special place in Hamilton's heart as the birthplace of his childhood idol, Ayrton Senna. The country has also  granted him honorary citizenship and earned him many local fans.

When he claimed victory in 2021 at Interlagos,  he also waved the Brazilian flag as he crossed the finish line. This was one of the most emotional moments of his career.

"I love this track. It is a really cool track. There is something so special about Brazil, there is energy here, there are people, culture, language that I have to learn," he explained. "All of that makes this place so special to me. It gives me passion."

Hamilton has finished second in the last two races, although he was disqualified from the United States Grand Prix in Austin when his car failed post-race inspection.

Red Bull have dominated, with Max Verstappen now a three-time world champion, but Hamilton is optimistic that his team can catch up.

Mike Elliott, whose departure as Mercedes Chief Technical Officer was announced on Tuesday, October 31, will not be with them. However, Hamilton said his contribution would not be forgotten.

"I met Mike when I was at McLaren and we have worked together for a long time. I have always had a very good relationship with Mike and really admire him. He is an intelligent person," said Hamilton.

"We have had great conversations, I have learned a lot from him about aerodynamics, for example. He has become an integral part of my team," said Hamilton.

"His contract was coming to an end and he decided to move on. You have to try not to look at it negatively, you have to want the best for other people," Hamilton added.

"I hope we will continue to have the relationship we have always had. You can't throw away all the incredible years we spent together. I really appreciate him because he has been part of the success we have achieved over the years," concluded Hamilton.