Hamilton: Mercedes have no chance vs Ferrari in Mexico

Lewis Hamilton says Mercedes have “no hope” of keeping up with Ferrari on the straights of the Mexican Grand Prix, as the event represents the Silver Arrows worst race of the year in terms of suitability.

Mercedes earned enough points at the Japanese GP to be crowned constructors’ champion for the sixth season in a row, but the Brit is expecting to be on the back foot in Mexico.

"I think Mexico is generally our worst race of the year because of the way our car is set up and it's going to be a tough one for us. The last few have been pretty shocking, even though we've won the title there," he admitted.

"I'm hoping for a better weekend but I think it's going to be very hard to beat the Ferraris with those long straights.

Hamilton, Bottas given 'fair game' in title fightRead more

"We have no hope of getting by on those straights, that's for sure. But even if you look at the others, the McLarens are picking up some serious speeds on the straights, so are the Red Bulls so I think it will be a tricky one”

Should Hamilton outscore Valtteri Bottas by 14 points in Mexico, he will be crowned drivers’ champion for the sixth time, but he reckons the battle could go on a while longer.

"I think for me it's never been a case of always wanting to rush things," the five-time world champion explained.

"Valtteri's driven well all year long, he's done a great job today and he will most likely do a very very solid job these next races, so we still have a battle, the fight continues.

"I don't anticipate it will be Mexico. I think we will be battling for a good few races."

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