F1 News: Lewis Hamilton Visits Mercedes W15 In Wind Tunnel - "Hopeful"

The 2024 car looks promising.

Before setting off on the long winter break, Lewis Hamilton paid visits to the racing team in Brackley and the HPP engine division in Brixworth to receive an update on the developments for next year, and most importantly, to witness the Mercedes 2024 W15 F1 car in the wind tunnel which he says has reignited his hopes for the upcoming year.

Despite a challenging season that got Mercedes zero wins, the British driver spoke of a "positive" scene within the team, following their achievement of securing second place in the Constructors' Championship.

Speaking to the media about his visit, Hamilton revealed ahead of Friday’s FIA prize-giving gala:

"I've been very busy.

“It's been a long, long year, but just tying up all the loose ends, working with the team.

“I was at the team yesterday just thanking everyone for the amazing work they've done throughout the year. It's a special time of the year, you’re winding down and you're seeing where we're going next.”

Hamilton added:

"The mood [in the factory] is very positive. I think all the members in the team are incredibly grateful to have got second in the constructors' given the challenges that we faced this season. And so it's always quite emotional.

“And I've been with the team for such a long time, but every time you go back to Brixworth and Brackley, and you're reminded of just how big a team is pushing you forward from behind.

“And you see every individual, some people that are new to the team that have joined whilst I've been here, and some that have been way before, and also some that have worked on my engine since my first Grand Prix in F1. It's amazing to see just the progress and the growth.

“And also our team is becoming more and more diverse, which has been really pleasing for me to see, that we are moving in the right direction."

The seven-time champion went on to clarify that although he likes to keep up with the progress of the W15, it is difficult to see how the developments are going. Nevertheless, he emphasises that he has "full faith" in the team and that it's an "exciting time". He said:

"I think it's always difficult.

“I'm not an engineer or a designer. So it's not easy. It's always the exciting time of the year because I have seen the car in the wind tunnel, I always go by the wind tunnel when I go to the factory, to see it evolving in whichever direction it ends up going.

“Literally when I was leaving yesterday again I popped in just to see where we were, and when I come back, it will be again a different animal.

“I have full faith in everyone that's working on it. And I'm hopeful that we will be in a much more competitive position next year."

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Lewis Hamilton has established himself as one of the sport's all-time greats. Beginning his career with McLaren in 2007, Hamilton quickly made a name for himself in the world of Formula One. His early days were marked by a partnership with the McLaren Young Driver Programme, leading to an impressive stint with the team from 2007 to 2012. In his debut race at the 2007 Australian Grand Prix, Hamilton showcased his extraordinary talent, setting the stage for a remarkable career. His driving style, characterised as smooth, aggressive, and adaptable, has been a significant factor in his success.

Throughout his career, Hamilton has achieved an impressive record, underlined by his 103 career wins, 104 pole positions, and 197 podium finishes. Hamilton's move to Mercedes further elevated his career, where he continued to dominate the sport. He is renowned for his seven World Championship titles, achieved in 2008, 2014, 2015, 2017, 2018, 2019, and 2020, tying him for the most in F1 history with Michael Schumacher. His first World Championship win in 2008 is a career highlight, as he became the then-youngest ever Formula One World Champion in a dramatic season finale.

Hamilton's career, spanning over 332 Grand Prix entries, is not just about the numbers. It's about the impact he has had on the sport, both on and off the track. With a total of 4,639.5 points scored and 65 fastest laps, his record is extraordinary. Hamilton's influence extends beyond his racing achievements; he's a prominent figure in promoting diversity, inclusivity and environmental sustainability within the sport.