The 2024 Formula 1 season has been a challenging one for Lewis Hamilton, and Mercedes’ questionable race strategy at the Singapore Grand Prix has left fans and experts alike in disbelief.

After securing a strong third-place qualifying position, Hamilton was placed on a controversial soft tire strategy, which immediately raised eyebrows within the racing community.

While other top drivers opted for the more durable medium tires, Mercedes made the puzzling decision to start Hamilton on scrubbed soft tires.

The move, seen by many as a gamble, failed to pay off, with Hamilton dropping several positions early in the race and ultimately finishing sixth. The team’s decision sparked further criticism as George Russell, Hamilton’s teammate, benefited from a more stable strategy and finished ahead in fourth.

The tire strategy seemed illogical, especially given Hamilton’s track record of being a strong qualifier who is usually given preferential treatment in terms of tire choices.

The seven-time world champion voiced his displeasure over the team radio, highlighting his frustration with the strategy that compromised his race from the start.

Internal Team Friction?
Mercedes’ questionable decision has led to speculations about internal dynamics within the team. Some fans and analysts have raised concerns about potential favoritism toward George Russell, with some even suggesting that Mercedes may be trying to unsettle Hamilton ahead of his rumored move to Ferrari in 2025. Despite these speculations, Hamilton has dismissed conspiracy theories of intentional sabotage, but the ongoing mismanagement of race strategies has undeniably left him frustrated.

Mercedes’ technical director James Allison later admitted that starting Hamilton on soft tires was a mistake, explaining that the team’s thinking was to use the softer compound to gain early positions. However, as the race unfolded, it became clear that the tire degradation on the demanding Singapore track was too severe, and Hamilton was left struggling on older hard tires later in the race.

A Season of Setbacks
This isn’t the first time Hamilton’s race has been compromised by questionable strategic calls from Mercedes. Races in Canada and Baku also saw post-race apologies from the team, and the Singapore Grand Prix only added to the growing list of strategic blunders that have hampered Hamilton’s performance this season.

Despite being out-qualified by Russell in several races this year, Hamilton remains ahead of his teammate in the Drivers’ Championship, a testament to his consistency and ability to overcome challenges on the track. However, his patience with the team appears to be wearing thin, as he hinted at his dissatisfaction with the current state of the partnership.

Looking Ahead
As Hamilton prepares for the upcoming race in Austin, Texas, he took to social media to address the situation and reassure his supporters. “I know there’s been a lot of talk about our strategy in Singapore, which just didn’t work,” Hamilton wrote. “It’s easy to speak out in frustration, but we knew starting on soft tires was a bold and risky decision. We misjudged what others might do.”

While Hamilton emphasized that his relationship with Mercedes remains strong, he also acknowledged the challenges they face together. “Make no mistake, things are cool with the team. Like all successful partnerships, you need the lows to appreciate the highs. We’re not shying away from tough discussions, and that’s why we’ve achieved so much together.”

The Future of Mercedes
Mercedes, currently fourth in the Constructors’ Championship, is in a rebuilding phase as they work toward 2025. George Russell is expected to step into a leadership role after Hamilton’s departure, but the team’s inconsistent performance this season has raised questions about their ability to return to the top of the sport. Up-and-coming driver Andrea Kimi Antonelli is set to join the team, further signaling Mercedes’ long-term planning.

With several races remaining in the season, fans are eager to see whether Mercedes can rebound from their recent struggles and how Hamilton will fare in what may be his final races with the team. The Austin Grand Prix will offer another opportunity for Mercedes to prove their strategic capabilities and for Hamilton to showcase his enduring talent on the world stage.

As the curtain slowly draws on Hamilton’s illustrious career with Mercedes, fans can only hope that the partnership that once dominated Formula 1 can end on a high note, despite the recent turbulence.