LEWIS HAMILTON “no longer has the hunger” and will probably miss out on a record eighth world title, claims F1 legend Sir Jackie Stewart.
Hamilton, 38, has just signed a two-year extension with Mercedes worth £50million but last won the crown in 2020.
But Stewart fears “serious problems” are hampering his fellow Brit’s chances of being a serious contender again.
Max Verstappen is heading for a third straight title with his dominant Red Bull team.
And three-time world champ Stewart, 84, told Bild: “First of all, Lewis is one of the best to ever drive in Formula 1.
“But the truth is that in the last decade he competed with Mercedes for a team that was virtually out of competition.
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“During this time, Lewis only had one real competitor: his respective teammate.
“Lewis no longer has that hunger. Because of that – and because the car is no longer quite as powerful – he has serious problems.”
Stewart reckons a better car is vital for Hamilton’s hopes of passing Michael Schumacher’s haul of seven titles with one more crown.
He said: “That also depends on Mercedes. It’s not impossible, but I still don’t think he’ll be able to do it.
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“And I don’t think – despite the rumours about Ferrari – that he will change teams again.”
Hamilton has achieved four podium finishes this season – in Australia, Spain, Canada and Britain.
But he has yet to win a Grand Prix this year and his total of 164 points leaves him a distant fourth, with leader Verstappen on 364.
Source: Motorsport - thesun.co.uk
