Hamilton explains podium SURPRISE and sets sights on Red Bull

Harry Smith
Sunday 4 June 2023 17:27

Lewis Hamilton has expressed his surprise with Mercedes' performance at the Spanish Grand Prix after he claimed a P2 finish and secured a return to the podium.

The 38-year-old Brit survived lap one contact with Lando Norris to take P3 on the road and quickly set after Carlos Sainz, who struggled for pace all afternoon in his Ferrari.

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Hamilton would emerge from his first pit stop behind Sainz but quickly restored his advantage and never looked threatened by his team-mate George Russell behind.

This P2 finish marks the second podium trip of the season for the seven-time world champion, who looked visibly motivated after stepping out of the W14.

Hamilton has eyes on Red Bull

Speaking with Nico Rosberg during the post-race interviews, Hamilton said: "What a result for our team.

"We definitely didn't expect to have the result we had today, so I just really wanna take my hat off to my team. A big big thank you to everyone back at the factory for continuing to push and bringing us a bit closer to the [Red] Bulls.

"They're still a bit ahead, but we'll keep chasing them down. But this is an amazing result, George did a great job today as well."

Hamilton still believes that Mercedes can close up Red Bull's advantage over time though.

“I think this is a bit too quick at the moment," he said, gesturing at the RB19 behind him.

"But we’re working at it. So, just one step at a time and if we can get close by the end of the year, that’ll be awesome. But if not, next year.

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