Hamilton on Red Bull fight: 'We're a little bit closer'

Lewis Hamilton believes Mercedes' updates have gone some way to closing the gap to runaway Formula 1 leaders Red Bull.

The seven-time World Champion progressed from fourth on the grid to finish runner-up to Max Verstappen at the Circuit de Catalunya.

The Mercedes driver passed Ferrari's Carlos Sainz en route to his second podium of the season, with teammate George Russell following in P3.

With both drivers fending off the recovering Red Bull of Sergio Perez and finishing some way ahead of the Ferraris and Aston Martins, the Spanish GP represented one of the team's best races of the season.

"What a result for our team, we definitely didn't expect to have the result we have today, so I just really want to take my hat off to my team," Hamilton told media after the race.

"A big, big thank you to everyone back at the factory for continuing to push and bringing us a little bit closer to the Bulls.

"They're still a bit ahead, but we will keep chasing them down, but this is an amazing result. George did a great job today as well."

When asked if he had any hope of Red Bull being caught in 2023, Hamilton gave a realistic response.

"I think they're still a little bit too quick at the moment, but we're working at it," added Hamilton.

"Just one step at a time, and if we can get close by the end of the year, that'd be awesome. But, if not, then next year."