Lewis Hamilton is unsure whether Mercedes can catch up with Red Bull after reigning world champion Max Verstappen capped off the 2023 Formula 1 season with another dominant drive in Sunday’s Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.
The Dutch driver started from pole and never lost control as he finished 18 seconds clear of Charles Leclerc to clinch his record-extending 19th race win in 2023. It was also his 54th career win which took him up to third in the all-time race wins list behind Hamilton (103) and Michael Schumacher (91).
Mercedes were however able to beat Ferrari to second in the constructors’ championship but had a disappointing season by their high standards as they failed to record a race win for the first time since 2011. Hamilton finished the race in ninth and made it back-to-back seasons he failed to win a race.
“At this moment, I don’t really know. For Red Bull to win by 17 seconds and they haven’t even developed their car since August is definitely a concern,” the 38-year-old said after the Abu Dhabi race.
“We have learned a lot about the car and it’s just down to the team now. They know what they need to do. Whether or not we will get there, we will see.”
Celebrating P2 in the Constructors’ Championship. Bring on 2024! ???? pic.twitter.com/ZRm0pm7B0c
— Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team (@MercedesAMGF1) November 26, 2023
When quizzed on what he can take away from the season, Hamilton responded:
“Not too much. It’s not been a great year in general. There’s not a lot to take from the year in general.
“The fact I survived it, probably that’s about it.”
Hamilton finished third in the drivers’ championship behind Verstappen and Sergio Perez. He will get to race for Mercedes for a 12th season in 2024 after he renewed his contract with the Brackley outfit until 2025 back in August.
