Mercedes title wins always on the cards - Hamilton

Lewis Hamilton believes that winning championships with Mercedes was always likely. The world champion said that he felt the culture around Mercedes-Benz would lead to success in F1 sooner rather than later and that his inspired move to the team was researched before the decision.

Whilst many outlets in the British media presented Hamilton's move to Mercedes as foolish and desperate, it in fact turned out to be everything but and the Brit has looked in inspired form especially in 2018.

Speaking to media in Austin, Hamilton explained that whilst many in the F1 paddock thought his move to the Silver Arrows would not pay off, he had given it a lot of thought and believed he would win titles with the team.

“I do not consider myself lucky to end up at Mercedes. Before signing, I did my homework and talked to different people from different teams. I made a list of pros and cons and asked the teams the right questions.

“From Ross Brawn, I wanted to know then what Mercedes were planning to do to get better. I told him: You have 400 people, McLaren has 800. How do you want to keep up with them in terms of speed of development?

“The answers he gave me painted a picture that convinced me to sign. I knew it would take a little longer but Mercedes is also such a famous brand that I was sure they would eventually win.”

Hamilton also reflected on his time with his previous team, McLaren. In particular explaining how tough his rookie season was up against one of his greatest rivals, Fernando Alonso.

“Yes, I was fortunate to start my career right away in a top team, but it’s sometimes easier for a young driver to learn in a small team where you do not have that much pressure.

“Being a rookie in a top team against a two-time world champion (Alonso) then suddenly being famous and travelling so much was a huge job and one of the toughest years of my life.”