The desert sands of Qatar witnessed another chapter in the evolving narrative of Lewis Hamilton's 2024 Formula 1 season.
A day after expressing the humbling claim that he is “definitely not fast anymore," the seven-time world champion exuded a defiant spirit, insisting that his inner flame still burned bright.
However, the stark reality of his qualifying struggles was laid bare once again on Saturday evening at the Lusail International Circuit.
Despite a solid effort, the Mercedes driver ended up only sixth on the grid, 0.436 seconds behind his teammate George Russell, who secured a spot on the front row.
This gap was even wider than the 0.399-second deficit Hamilton faced in Friday’s sprint qualifying session and which prompted his candid admission of waning pace. Yet, despite the evident disappointment, Hamilton remained resolute.
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"Yeah, I know I've still got it," he declared, his voice carrying a mix of conviction and frustration.
"Just the car won't go any faster. I definitely know I've got it still. It's not a question in my mind. [But I'm] looking forward to the end.
“I'm slow. I'm half a second off my teammate in the same car.”
When asked whether his difficulties were isolated to the Qatar weekend or indicative of a broader trend, Hamilton’s response was sobering: "No, it's been all year."
Unfortunately, the root cause of his struggles remains elusive.
"It's not possible to change it right now," he said, signaling a recognition that the issues he faces won’t be solved overnight.
Hamilton’s weekend wasn’t without its moments of brightness. During the sprint race, he showcased flashes of his fighting spirit, engaging in a thrilling battle with future Ferrari teammate Charles Leclerc.
Reflecting on the encounter, Hamilton noted he could have fought harder.
"Yeah, it was alright," he said. "It was fair. Nice and close. I mean, I didn't defend: I should have defended, but I didn't.
"He was a bit quicker than me and he was probably going to come by anyway. So if I'm in the same position again tomorrow, I'll put more of a fight out for sure."
Can Hamilton defy the odds and extract the maximum from his underperforming car?
Or will the weight of his struggles continue to weigh him down in the final two races of his life at Mercedes.
Only time will tell. But one thing is certain: Lewis Hamilton, the relentless fighter, is not ready to surrender.
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