Lewis Hamilton claims his Mercedes team is “right at the top” as one of the best ever to race in Formula 1.
This past weekend, the German manufacturer wrapped up the Constructors’ title for the sixth consecutive time, matching the achievement of Michael Schumacher’s Ferrari squad between 1999-2004.
At the same time though, Mercedes also confirmed they would be double champions over the same period with only Hamilton or Valtteri Bottas now in the Drivers’ championship fight.
“Well it’s been an incredibly challenging year, which people probably won’t appreciate just how hard it’s been for us all, it feels like it is increasingly difficult more and more each year,” the Briton said at Suzuka reflecting on the success.
“Even though this looks like it’s been a more successful year for us it’s still extremely challenging, extracting everything from the car and the upgrades and pushing the team forwards in the right direction.
“Staying ahead of the competition is not easy.”
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What is often one of the main factors for a team that has won so much for so long in keeping the motivation to keep pushing at the same rate.
Looking back on how Mercedes reacted to winning both 2018 titles though, Hamilton has no concerns.
“Last year it was incredible in Brazil to see how enthusiastic the whole team was, it was really special to see and after the last race, seeing how energised everyone was,” he said.
“Yes we’ve had a lot of success but that’s still there. That love is still there which is great.
“What I am hired to do is to bring in the points and help the team get the result and so I am very, very proud to be part of it when I can come across the line and get that win.
“It’s very, very special and it kind of bonds you for life, that memory. It’s history as well.”
And on that historical note, Lewis, who himself can become a six-time F1 champion in Mexico, does believe this Mercedes outfit will go down as one of the best ever in F1.
“Right at the top,” he said. “I think it’s been an incredible journey that we’ve had and so much work from so many people who have contributed, even with our partners who enable us to do what we do.
“I don’t know if you realise watching how much work goes on in the background because obviously most people tune in to the weekend and see the outcome of so much work.
“Hundreds and hundreds of hours of work for one weekend, I think it just shows the strength in depth and the attention of Mercedes and Daimler as an organisation to continue to be a prominent and dominating figure in the motorsport and car industries, so it’s pretty special.”