Lewis Hamilton predicts a grim outlook for the São Paulo GP in Brazil. The seven-time world champion qualified in thirteenth place on Saturday and sees little chance of a successful comeback. The contrast with teammate Charles Leclerc is stark once again; the Monegasque driver clocked the third fastest time at Interlagos on Saturday. Hamilton – who is an honorary citizen of Brazil – will have to disappoint his fans and has written off the race even before it has begun.
After the qualifying round, a defeated Lewis Hamilton spoke to the press. The Brit was terse and mainly conveyed that from the thirteenth position, and given Ferrari’s current form, he has little prospect of a good result. Unlike the sprint qualifying, where Hamilton was caught off guard by yellow flags, this time he simply lacked speed. “The weekend is over,” he sighed to the media.
‘Expect Nothing’
Hamilton was asked about his chances of recovering in the race. “As far as I’m concerned, this is another weekend to write off,” he responded dryly. In the sprint race, the Ferrari driver already noticed how difficult it is to overtake – he was stuck behind Fernando Alonso‘s Aston Martin for a long time. “Honestly, I expect nothing, but we’ll see what happens,” he said. “I’ve tried all year, but it keeps going wrong every weekend. Tomorrow I’ll get up and try again.”
Finally, he was asked if he had learned anything from the sprint race. “Not really, except that you can’t overtake here,” he concluded dejectedly. Hamilton was obviously hoping for more during the race weekend in São Paulo. The 44-year-old driver, an honorary citizen of Brazil, enjoys a lot of support at Interlagos.
