Lewis Hamilton expresses his desire for a driver with similar principles and values to take his place at Mercedes in the upcoming season. The shocking move of Hamilton to Ferrari has left a vacancy at Mercedes, and the team is actively searching for a suitable replacement for the seven-time world champion. Hamilton, who has been an advocate for equality and other important issues in the sport, emphasized the importance of integrity and values in the new driver that Mercedes acquires. It is crucial for the 39-year-old to have someone who can work harmoniously with the exceptional team at Brackley.
In addition, Hamilton commends the exceptional individuals within the Mercedes crew. He openly acknowledges that some drivers prioritize their own interests over others, while others with immense talent do not find themselves in the right environment within the sport. Hamilton firmly believes that Mercedes should secure a skilled driver for the upcoming season.
The 2024 season has been challenging for Mercedes, particularly during the ground-effect era. Hamilton considers it the worst start he has experienced in his Formula 1 career. However, he remains optimistic about the car as Mercedes continues to address its issues. Although the W15 initially showed promise, underlying problems soon emerged, causing the positive outlook to diminish. Hamilton emphasizes the need for consistency and improved drivability in the car, urging the team at Brackley to work on these aspects.
Consequently, Mercedes plans to introduce in-season upgrades throughout the 2024 season with the hope of competing for race victories in the latter part of the year. Hamilton, who has been with the Brackley-based team for over a decade, aims to conclude his journey with Mercedes by securing his first win since 2021.