Hamilton reveals team-mate issues in ‘ruthless’ admission

Lewis Hamilton has discussed his journey to becoming a 'team player', after previously experiencing problems with his Formula 1 colleagues.

With just six races to go this season, the 39-year-old is edging closer to his Mercedes exit, as he gets set to embark on a new challenge at Ferrari.

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The Brit clinched has six of his seven world titles with the Brackley-based squad, and has been an integral part of their success in the sport.

Any hopes of a fairytale ending, however, appear unlikely given his recent struggles to be competitive at the top of the order.

Hamilton admits early F1 issues

It's been a challenging campaign for the former McLaren racer, who despite adding two race wins to his record-breaking tally, has cut a frustrated figure for much of the year.

Both he and team-mate George Russell have failed to build on their mid-season promise, with the pair a long way off the pace of McLaren, Red Bull and Ferrari since returning from the summer break.

Hamilton enjoys a positive relationship with his compatriot at Mercedes, but has admitted that he wasn't always the ideal team-mate in the early stages of his career.

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Speaking to The Times, he reflected on his change in approach since making his breakthrough as a raw talent back in 2007.

“Honestly, right now I feel I’m healthier than I’ve ever been,” he said. “I’m in such a good place, physically and mentally.

"My reaction times are still quicker than the young guys - I think I’m a better driver than I was at 22.

"I was just young, energetic and ruthless, but no finesse, no balance. I didn’t know how to be a team player, how to be a leader.

"Being a good racing driver, it’s not just about being fast, it’s about being the most rounded.

"When I study the legends, they’re spread between small percentages, so it’s the whole package - what do they speak for, stand for? - that’s what I look at.

"I look to Ayrton Senna and Nelson Mandela, and those are the two people gelled together that I want to be.”

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