Hamilton remains grounded after P1 in Brazil: "Red Bull will be strong tomorrow"

Lewis Hamilton continued to raise the bar after every lap in qualifying. The Mercedes driver is fitted with a brand new internal combustion engine for the race in Brazil and got pole position for the sprint race. 

Hamilton spoke about how he enjoyed the qualifying session after getting the car in the correct set-up. He also revealed Mercedes told him he would be taking a new engine yesterday. 

"I loved today for sure. We're working so hard to get this car right, it's tough so to finally get the car feeling like it did today is a testament to all the work going on in the garage and at home. The last two poles I've had, I've had a penalty but it is what it is," Hamilton told Sky Sports with a smile on his face. 

"I found out yesterday, right to the last minute they were trying to make a decision, I trust their judgement. I don't know if it'll translate in the race. I get it wrong a lot of the time but today I got the set-up right and the car was nice to drive. It was everything I wanted and I was gaining each time," Hamilton added. 

Momentum swings

Throughout the 2021 season, the momentum has been swinging between Red Bull and Mercedes. Even Hamilton expressed is confusion over the recent change after Verstappen was so strong in Mexico last time out. 

"I don't know how we can go from one track to where they are 0.5 seconds ahead to being behind. They'll be strong in the race tomorrow, I hope Valtteri gets a good start tomorrow," Hamilton added.