Jan.19 – Toto Wolff insists Lewis Hamilton is still capable of winning an eighth Formula 1 title.

« Clearly yes, and I emphasise that strongly, » said the Mercedes boss, following recent reports and opinions questioning the ability of the now 39-year-old to return to top winning form.

« There is a reason why Lewis has broken all records and won seven world championships – because his skill is on a higher level. If we give him a good car that he can trust, he can get back in front of everyone, » Wolff added.

In a recent interview, however, Hamilton had admitted that he sometimes doubts his abilities.

« All the extraordinary people I met in my life are like that, » Wolff told La Gazzetta dello Sport.

His comments come amid Mercedes’ announcement of a new long-term contract for returning technical director James Allison, with Wolff describing him as « the most impressive technical leader in our sport ».

Allison’s task is to end Mercedes’ recent losing streak and overtake Red Bull.

« Catching up isn’t quite as nice as winning, » Allison is quoted as saying by Auto Motor und Sport, « but it’s inevitable in sport. You have to stand up when you haven’t done your job well enough.

« Red Bull was in no man’s land for years, » he added. « They can now be even more happy about their success. We want to go there again. »

However, Allison admits that beating Red Bull as soon as 2024 may be difficult, agreeing with Hamilton that it will be like climbing Mount Everest.

« It is the most difficult task imaginable, » he said, « but it is possible. »

He said early simulator tests of the new car show that « the rear is more stable » and « the road holding is more balanced ».

« Last year we analysed our weaknesses, hypothesised the reasons for them and are now curious to see whether our actions confirm the diagnosis and hypotheses. »

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