Hamilton sets Mercedes a challenge after shock turnaround

Lewis Hamilton has downplayed his chances for the remainder of the Las Vegas Grand Prix weekend despite a clean sweep during Thursday evening practice and has called on Mercedes to work overnight to ensure it can maintain its pace.

Hamilton topped both sessions around the Las Vegas Strip Circuit while team-mate George Russell also looked competitive.

It marked a strong bounce back from Hamilton's dismal Sao Paulo Grand Prix earlier this month, after which he admitted he did not feel like returning to the cockpit.

Speaking after running on Thursday, a buoyant Hamilton reflected positively on his efforts.

“It's the first time that I've actually had a day like that this year. So the car was feeling really good in FP1 - FP2 less so,” he said.

“So we've got some work to do overnight, but it's difficult to know exactly where we are or why we are where we are.

“But I’m really enjoying driving the track and we'll see if the car is still the same tomorrow.”

The colder conditions in Las Vegas could play into Mercedes' favour as it has typically struggled in hot temperatures this year.

However, Hamilton conceded his race pace was lacking, making him wary over his chances of a strong result on Sunday.

“Hot conditions are a little bit worse for us but the race pace is not that great,” he said. 

“So the work we've got to do overnight is to try and figure out how we can have better race pace without losing actual pace throughout the lap.

“But it was nice to get, consecutive sectors and the car not throw me off.

“I’m feeling good in myself. Like I said coming this weekend, I know it’s not my driving. 

“So I just got to work hard overnight, not make big changes and hopefully get some good rest tonight and come back tomorrow.”