LEWIS HAMILTON "no longer has the hunger" and will probably miss out on a record eighth world title, claims F1 legend Sir Jackie Stewart.
Hamilton, 38, has just signed a two-year extension with Mercedes worth £50million but last won the crown in 2020.
But Stewart fears "serious problems" are hampering his fellow Brit's chances of being a serious contender again.
Max Verstappen is heading for a third straight title with his dominant Red Bull team.
And three-time world champ Stewart, 84, told Bild: "First of all, Lewis is one of the best to ever drive in Formula 1.
"But the truth is that in the last decade he competed with Mercedes for a team that was virtually out of competition.
READ MOE TOP STORIES
Hamilton ‘in love triangle’ with Shakira & 60-year-old Hollywood star
Get £30 in FREE BETS when you place any amount on any sports market with Sky Bet
"During this time, Lewis only had one real competitor: his respective teammate.
"Lewis no longer has that hunger. Because of that – and because the car is no longer quite as powerful – he has serious problems."
Stewart reckons a better car is vital for Hamilton's hopes of passing Michael Schumacher's haul of seven titles with one more crown.
He said: "That also depends on Mercedes. It's not impossible, but I still don't think he'll be able to do it.
Most read in Motorsport
RALLY TRAGEDY
Four-time champion rally driver found dead aged 59 in ‘catastrophic’ tragedy
SCHUEY PAIN
Schumacher update as F1 pal reveals heartbreak over star’s health
CRASH SCARE
MotoGP champ’s girlfriend in tears and is consoled after boyfriend is run over
LEW CAN’T TAKE IT
Max Verstappen hits back at ‘jealous’ Hamilton after Brit legend’s barb
FREE BETS – BEST BETTING OFFERS AND BONUSES NEW CUSTOMERS
"And I don't think – despite the rumours about Ferrari – that he will change teams again."
Hamilton has achieved four podium finishes this season – in Australia, Spain, Canada and Britain.
But he has yet to win a Grand Prix this year and his total of 164 points leaves him a distant fourth, with leader Verstappen on 364.
Source: Read Full Article
