Lewis fears being left in Max’s wake
LEWIS Hamilton will not give up his world crown lightly but the seven-time Formula One champion says the thrilling title duel with Max Verstappen could swing further away from him in the next two races.
Hamilton trails the Dutch driver by 12 points after finishing second to Verstappen in the United States Grand Prix on Sunday.
Ordinarily, it is a small gap to overhaul with five races left, but Hamilton fears that could become a more daunting lead with the Mexico (November 7) and Brazil (November 14) races on the horizon.
“The next two tracks are very strong for Red Bull, so it is going to be tough,” said Hamilton, who is chasing a record eighth world title.
“I am not thinking about it at the moment. Be happy with the job I did today and live in the moment.
“We were not quick enough today but I will look forward and take it one race at a time.
“There are two circuits that are strong for Red Bull, so we will just try and minimise how strong they can be compared to us and see if we can do a better job.”
Verstappen is not taking what would be a ninth victory this season – Hamilton has five – for granted in Mexico.
“A win for me doesn’t give me more confidence,” Verstappen said. “We are all confident in the team that we can do a good job, but we need to nail the details and start over again in Mexico.”