Lewis Hamilton has not completed a season without at least one Grand Prix victory since entering Formula 1. From a statistical point of view, the now 37-year-old record world champion does not care that the impressive record is about to come to an end this year.
“Of course I want to achieve another win this year, but the record is not important to me,” he said in the paddock at the Italian Grand Prix.
In Monza, Hamilton alone achieved five of his 103 race victories. Just as often, only Michael Schumacher won on the high-speed course in Italy, with whom Hamilton is tied even after world championship titles. Both triumphed seven times each.
With another Grand Prix success this year in Monza, it will be difficult for Hamilton. A new drive unit had to be installed in the British car. Because it is already the fourth this season, he will be demoted in the starting line-up. “I have to work my way from behind as best I can,” he said.
Hamilton does not yet know to what extent the routes to come in Singapore, Japan, the USA (Austin), Mexico, Brazil and Abu Dhabi are suitable for the Silver Arrow. “I have no idea where our car will be very good,” he said. But it is clear to him that he is not finished after this season: “I do not plan to stop. I feel healthier than I have ever felt.”
