F1
**Title:** “Has Lewis Hamilton Checked Out? Naomi Schiff Compares Mercedes Split to a ‘Divorce’ Amid Struggles in F1 2024
"Is Lewis Hamilton done with Mercedes?" – Comparing Hamilton's exit to a "divorce"
Lewis Hamilton's split from Mercedes has been described as similar to a "divorce".
Ex-W Series racer Naomi Schiff has compared Lewis Hamilton leaving Mercedes to a "divorce" given his challenging beginning to the season.
Hamilton has found it challenging to match the performance of his Mercedes teammate, George Russell, in the 2024 F1 season.
Following the Montreal event, Russell holds an 8-1 lead in qualifying matchups and is currently positioned higher in the drivers' championship standings.
Hamilton's lackluster performance, especially during qualifying sessions, has led to several enigmatic statements from the seven-time world champion.
The 39-year-old implied following the Monaco event that he might not be able to surpass Russell in qualifying sessions for the rest of the year.
In Canada, though, Hamilton appeared to hold himself more accountable for his underwhelming qualifying results.
During the most recent episode of the Sky Sports F1 podcast, Schiff shared her opinions on Hamilton's performance.
She mentioned that having an opportunity can awaken a sense of alertness in you. Reflecting on the events of Abu Dhabi 2021, she observed that returning in 2022 with a car incapable of seeking revenge was likely very frustrating for Lewis.
"I can understand how, from a psychological standpoint, that might have weighed heavily on him. It was a significant challenge to overcome, and not being able to voice his thoughts right away must have been difficult. In 2023, I noticed things were improving; he seemed a bit happier, more self-assured, and more like his old self."
"For reasons unknown at the start of this season, that appears to have disappeared."
Schiff is convinced that the partnership between Hamilton and Mercedes is bound to worsen.
"That's certainly going to be uneasy for Lewis," she remarked. "You could already notice some odd body language in Monaco, with Lewis mentioning that he plans to outperform George in qualifying for the remainder of the season."
"I’m not sure if there’s a new psychological dynamic emerging as Lewis and the team essentially go through a separation. This will unfold over the season. It’s inevitable that Lewis will be excluded from key meetings, and the team will likely favor George."
"These factors will likely cause some uncertainty for both the team and Lewis. What strategy are they employing? Has Lewis lost interest? Is he fully committed? I believe both parties will make every effort possible. There’s a shared desire between Mercedes and Lewis to conclude this positively."
"There is a great deal of respect present, but the truth is that once doubt begins to emerge, can the relationship with the team be sustained? It must be challenging."
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