The 2024 Singapore Grand Prix has become notorious for pushing Formula 1 drivers to their physical limits, and this year was no exception. For Lewis Hamilton, the grueling conditions reached an all-time low, with the seven-time world champion labeling the race as the most physically taxing of his entire career.
In a recent interview, Hamilton expressed just how tough the Marina Bay Street Circuit had been, stating, "Sunday was probably the worst I've felt after a race in my whole career." Competing in Formula 1 since 2007, Hamilton has weathered some of the most demanding races in the sport, but this year’s Singapore GP was different. Both he and his Mercedes teammate, George Russell, were visibly drained after stepping out of their cars.
In a rare occurrence, neither driver attended the post-race press conference, highlighting the extreme physical toll the race had taken. Hamilton mentioned the suffocating heat in the cockpit of his W15, which made it hard to cope throughout the race. "The car is really hot and our cockpit is... George and I have been struggling with the heat," Hamilton added.
Mercedes continues to struggle again!
Even on track, Mercedes had a lacklustre showing. Russell finished in fourth place, while Hamilton battled to secure a sixth-place finish. Both drivers were seen struggling to maintain their strength, with Russell spotted leaning on his car’s tyre just to keep his balance after the race.
Team Principal Toto Wolff did not shy away from the challenges that faced Mercedes in Singapore, candidly admitting that their car setup was not up to the mark. "We took the wrong decision, and we took it jointly," Wolff acknowledged, adding that the W15 simply wasn't fast enough on a track notorious for its punishing heat and tyre wear.
Despite their best efforts, Mercedes struggled to compete with the likes of Ferrari, Red Bull, and McLaren, leaving them trailing in the 2024 Constructors' Championship. With just 329 points, Mercedes is effectively out of contention for the title, as their rivals pull ahead in the standings.