F1 | US GP | “It’s amazing to be back,” says Hamilton about racing in America, praises Leclerc
Ahead of the United States Grand Prix, Lewis Hamilton expresses his opinion about Circuit of the Americas, future multiple races in the US, Charles Leclerc’s skills and his relationship with title contender rival, Max Verstappen, and physio Angela Cullen.
During the press conference in Austin, before the US Grand Prix weekend, reigning champion Lewis Hamilton shared his opinion on coming back to America after a year without racing at COTA and Mexico.
“It’s amazing to be back. I’ve already seen a warm welcome from some of my fans from Mexico.
“I have some great memories, there’s always an amazing crowd here and great races.”
As he was paired with Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc, he was asked about his opinion of the Monegasque’s skills and growth.
“It’s been amazing to see Charles’ growth. He’s grown into a leader at a phenomenal team. He’s gone from strength-to-strength growth.
“I think he’s on his own journey and he’s going to continue to grow in his own way.”
As Formula 1 is back in America, it was announced that there will be a second race in the United States: the Miami Grand Prix, and rumours about a third race being held in Las Vegas. Both drivers were asked about their feelings and opinion on this and which country they would like to compete in.
“I would like to get a race back in South Africa. There’s a great following out there and it would be a great way to highlight the beauty of the country.
“As for the races being held here, the United States Grand Prix, one race might be enough. But there’s a huge following, so to encapsule that 2 races are needed, and Miami is great.”
With 6 races left in the 2021 season calendar, we can see the rivalry and pressure between Hamilton and Verstappen grow. And as it is natural for relationships to change, Lewis reflects on his relationship with Max.
“We have limited communication between us. I don’t particularly hang out with anybody here. So, there’s nothing in particular about our relationship that is changing.”
Someone who Lewis has a close relationship with is his physio Angela Cullen, who he considers a friend.
“Angela and I are actually incredibly close, close as a friend. I’m very lucky to have found Angela.
"So, I didn’t have a trainer until I got to F1, they gave me a trainer. And even if they’re not, they are called physios.
“I invited her [Angela] in cause I needed a physio during race weekends. I don’t train during race weekends, so I needed a physio to make sure I’m as fresh as I can be.
“We love our job, and we love doing it together.”
