Mercedes’ Lewis Hamilton claimed “I’ve still got it” despite yet another qualifying blow, this time at the Formula 1 Qatar Grand Prix.
After qualifying seventh for the Sprint on Friday, a dismayed Hamilton said “I’m definitely not fast anymore.”
The Mercedes driver’s Saturday at the Lusail International Circuit improved only slightly, with sixth in the Sprint.
But after qualifying seventh for the GP and over four-tenths behind Mercedes team-mate George Russell, Hamilton’s misery continued.
“I’m slow, I’m half a second off my teammate in the same car,” Hamilton rued.
The Mercedes qualifying head-to-head doesn’t work in Hamilton’s favour whatsoever, with Russell enjoying a thorough 18 to five margin over his team-mate.
Hamilton expressed his issues with qualifying, unbefitting the all-time pole position record holder (104) have been occurring “all year.”
Speaking to Sky Sports, Hamilton couldn’t explain why he’s been on the back foot in qualifying compared to Russell.
“I can’t explain why I’m half a second off my teammate,” he said.
“That’s never happened, really, in my career, so I can’t explain that. What I can say is the car felt genuinely fine for me.
“There’s not really much I can add, I’ve given it absolutely everything, the laps were genuinely feeling good. I just come across the line and it’s slow.”
However, the seven-time world champion added, “I know I’ve still got it. I definitely know I’ve got it still. It’s not a question in my mind.”
Lewis Hamilton feeling grateful despite dip in F1 form
Speaking after Saturday’s Sprint race, Hamilton spoke humbly of his situation.
Despite his poor showing in Qatar, the Mercedes driver spoke about appreciating the positives of his current circumstances.
“It’s not been great,” he said. “I just want to get through these next couple of races and do my job, turn up.
“I’m looking forward to the winter break, you know.
“I woke up this morning and the most important thing is to lead with gratitude.
“I’m really grateful that I get to do what I love doing even when there are days when I don’t love it as much.
“I’m really so lucky to be here amongst all these other amazing athletes.
“It’s painful when it doesn’t go well, no one likes losing but that’s a part of the journey.”
READ MORE – Lewis Hamilton claims ‘I’m definitely not fast anymore’ amid latest qualifying letdown
