Lewis Hamilton has denied that his move to Mercedes next season could be a risk, as the Briton prepares to continue his Championship battle at this weekend’s Japanese Grand Prix. After Hamilton confirmed his switch to the German marque, questions regarding his ability to remain successful emerged within the paddock.
However, the 2008 World Champion remains confident that his move to Mercedes is a positive career move, as he aims to emulate the greats such as Ayrton Senna and Michael Schumacher by making his name with another team. Opinions throughout the paddock have varied, with some believing his move could be the making of him, whereas others remain dubious that his move could be a big mistake. Lewis Hamilton on the other hand refused to be drawn into conversation with regards to his move, instead wishing to remain focused with the remaining six races of the season.
"No. I’m not really here to talk about that this weekend." Explained Lewis Hamilton, when asked whether his move to Mercedes could be a risk. "I’m here to talk about trying to win this World Championship still. So we’ve got six races ahead in a great team that I’ve had a great, an incredible journey with and I’m working on trying to finish that on high."
Lewis Hamilton won one of the wettest races in the history of the sport at the Japanese Grand Prix in 2007, when the event was instead held at the Fuji Speedway. Although the Briton has finished on the podium at Suzuka, he has never won a race at the legendary circuit, a fact he’s eager to change this weekend.
"I generally love coming here, the whole trip’s been fantastic so far and the track is one of the best in the world." Continued Lewis Hamilton, who’s career best finish at Suzuka was 3rd in 2009. "It’s one that I haven’t won at before but we’ve got a car that I think can win - so let’s hope it’s a better weekend."
Lewis Hamilton currently sits 4th in the Drivers’ Championship, with 142 points scored. Victory this weekend would most certainly see Hamilton remain a Championship contender, however a repeat of Singapore’s misfortune could be detrimental. With team-mate Jenson Button incurring a five-place grid penalty due to a gearbox change, Hamilton remains McLaren’s only true hope of victory this weekend at Suzuka.