Lewis Hamilton has expressed the need for “profound discussions” within the Mercedes team following his disappointing performance behind McLaren at the British Grand Prix.
During the Austrian race, the Woking-based team introduced a comprehensive upgrade kit for Lando Norris, which also benefited his rookie colleague Oscar Piastri at Silverstone. Surprisingly, the dynamic combo finished second and third on the starting grid.
Despite Hamilton’s relentless pursuit on softer tires, Norris managed to maintain his position throughout the race. However, Hamilton’s fierce determination posed a considerable threat in the closing stages.
Moreover, Piastri would have secured a podium finish if not for an untimely Safety Car intervention that allowed Hamilton to make a pit stop without any consequences.
Both Mercedes Team Principal Toto Wolff and Hamilton acknowledged the remarkable progress made by McLaren following their implementation of a Red Bull-inspired aerodynamic upgrade, which became evident in their impressive race pace.
Considering this undeniable improvement, Hamilton candidly admitted that the Silver Arrows must now push forward and find ways to elevate their performance.
“It’s definitely been an up-and-down season and in the last year and a half,” Lewis told Sky Sports F1.
“Our car… we have a lot of work to do. I think I know exactly what we need to do and we need to have some serious conversations about what we’re going to do moving forward.
“The McLaren is proof of the direction that they’ve gone, it was impressive how quick they were in high speed.
“We have strengths in our car, long runs are great. As soon as we get the rear-end they have, we’re going to be on our way.
“That’s what we have got to fight for. George [Russell, Hamilton’s teammate] had a really great long stint on the Soft tyre, I did also on the Medium.
“We have got to hold onto the good bits and just add on some other stuff.”
