Hamilton: “I’m not giving up”

Despite this new twist of fate, it was a peaceful world champion and more confident than ever in the future who fought in the streets of Monaco.

Too bad, this exit from the track in Q1…
Not much to add except that it ruined my weekend. The race was very difficult, but I am still happy to finish. At one point I thought of one of those Rocky movies when Stallone said, “I just want to see the end of the fight!” » I crossed the line after attacking as much as I could from the first to the last lap.

Do you think your last chances of retaining the title have definitely vanished this weekend?
I don't think about that. Button is fighting for the championship, not us. Improving the car and scoring points is our goal at the moment. We are far behind in terms of points and, given the consistency of Brawn, catching up with them will be very difficult. The team is working like crazy to improve things but the MP4-24 is not yet at the required level to allow us to defend the title. That doesn't stop us from fighting and pushing as much as possible during each race. Personally, I attack as much as possible when I drive the car. I do not give up.

Will the MP4-24 be able to quickly reach this level of performance?
The team is working as much as it can to improve it. I am convinced that we can reverse the trend. I don't think the MP4-24 is inherently bad. I don't know when, but I'm sure that the team will find something that will allow us to take a big step forward at once. We are making great progress and we are all optimistic for the future. Here, in Monaco, the new developments have had a big influence in terms of support. When we start winning again, we can all be very proud. There is a huge feeling of solidarity and optimism within the team.

Find the full interview in AUTOhebdo N°1702, on newsstands on May 27