Lewis Hamilton has predicted that the Brazilian Grand Prix may be the final chance to secure a first win of the 2022 season. With Mercedes struggling for performance for most of the season, the seven-time World Champion is facing the prospect of a first winless year in F1. Both Hamilton and George Russell have shown improved competitiveness in the W13 in recent events, but have still failed to match the pace of Red Bull and Max Verstappen. When asked about the prospects of challenging for a victory at the Interlagos Circuit, Hamilton played down Mercedes' chances of defeating Red Bull and Ferrari in a conventional race. "Honestly, every time we arrive at a track, we're surprised one way or the other [at] how big the gap is or how close we are," Hamilton told media, including RacingNews365.com . "I don't know if the car will be spectacular here. "I don't know if we will be as close as we were last week... I don't think we will, but I hope we're surprised and it's not the case."
Hamilton hoping for rain-affected race
Hamilton's most recent chance of victory came at the US Grand Prix, where he spent much of the race in the lead following a slow pit stop for Verstappen before eventually being overtaken by the Dutchman. The Briton added that he would need similar outside factors to contest for the race win, and pointed to the potential for a wet-weather race as factor that could assist him. "We kind of know where our car is going to work and what corners it won't work [on], so I anticipate it's not going to be the easiest of tracks," added Hamilton. "But there's weather, there's all sorts that could come into it. So, out of the next two races, this is the best option we'll have, or the closest I think will be. "I think next one [Abu Dhabi] with those long straights will be tough."
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