Lewis Hamilton’s last Formula 1 victory took place on December 5, 2021, during the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix. That win was not only intense but also marked the climax of a fierce title battle between Hamilton and Max Verstappen. The 2021 season came to a controversial end in Abu Dhabi, and Hamilton’s absence from the top step of the podium since then has fueled debates in the F1 world. Fans and analysts often question how the once-dominant seven-time world champion has not managed to win a race for over three years.
The 2021 season was one of Hamilton’s most competitive, as he chased a record-breaking eighth title. His on-track duel with Verstappen was filled with tension, aggressive racing, and dramatic moments that captivated audiences. Although Hamilton delivered some brilliant performances, his defeat in the final race—widely disputed due to race direction controversies—left a lasting impact. The fallout from that season arguably influenced Mercedes’ and Hamilton’s trajectory in the following years.
The 2022 season introduced significant technical regulation changes, and Mercedes struggled to adapt. Their new W13 car suffered from a bouncing issue, known as “porpoising,” which made it difficult for Hamilton to compete at the front. Rather than battling for wins, he often found himself in midfield fights. The new aerodynamic rules left many teams scrambling, but Mercedes seemed particularly affected, which restricted Hamilton’s ability to maximize his driving talents.
By 2023, while Mercedes made progress on performance and addressed porpoising, they still lagged behind Red Bull’s superior car. Red Bull and Verstappen dominated the grid, while other teams like Ferrari and Aston Martin occasionally challenged them. Despite Hamilton’s consistent pace, strong qualifying, and moments of leadership in races, the lack of top-end race pace held him back from claiming victory. His determination remained, but the tools weren’t quite there.
Several reasons have been identified for Hamilton’s continued winless streak. Red Bull’s unmatched performance, Verstappen’s consistency, and the intense competitiveness of F1 all contribute to the challenge. The ongoing learning curve under new regulations has made it harder for teams like Mercedes to catch up. Additionally, while Hamilton’s skill remains exceptional, age and the physical toll of racing may subtly affect his performance. Still, his drive and leadership within the team remain strong, with many hopeful that he’ll soon break the drought and return to winning ways.
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