WATCH: Lewis Hamilton Sweats it Out in the Gym Allaying Major Fears Ahead of Russian GP

The Italian Grand Prix, for the second straight season, failed to treat Lewis Hamilton quite well, as the turn 1 debacle with Max Verstappen resisted the Briton from even seeing the chequered flag.

There is no denying that Hamilton’s life was hanging by a thread as the crash unfolded, only for the controversial halo to save his life in the end. And of course, Hamilton had acknowledged that he was struggling with a sore neck after having come in contact with the rear-right tire of the Red Bull.

But, despite enduring such an intense crash at Monza, Hamilton is back to work ahead of the Russian Grand Prix, which is due later this week.

Mercedes’ update on Lewis Hamilton

Mercedes took to Twitter to update that the 7-time world champion had finally hit the gym after enjoying the brief break phase following the Italian GP.

“Gains. Lewis Hamilton back in the gym and training hard ahead of the Russian GP!” Mercedes wrote on Twitter. Hamilton, too, captioned the recording – “Strengthening my traps and neck. Back in action!!!”

Gains. @LewisHamilton back in the gym and training hard ahead of the Russian GP! pic.twitter.com/c58VOusQKn

— Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team (@MercedesAMGF1) September 18, 2021

Hamilton had the golden opportunity of reclaiming the championship lead from Verstappen at Monza. Both the Mercedes drivers owned a much-dominant car, only for Red Bull to deny the advantage ultimately.

Now, only 5 points separate the duo in the title fight. And with the next stop at Sochi Autodrom, Mercedes will certainly hold the upper hand against their rivals.

Can Hamilton claim his 100th GP victory at Sochi?

Hamilton’s journey to the 99 race victories looked quite rapid. However, the Briton is still searching for the triple-figure victory since the British Grand Prix. But, could his wait finally end at Sochi?

Well, there are chances that the Briton could finally claim his much-yearned race win in Russia, but of course, amidst obstacles. The primary obstacle being his very own teammate, Valtteri Bottas.

Formula One F1 – Italian Grand Prix – Autodromo Nazionale Monza, Monza, Italy – September 10, 2021 Mercedes’ Valtteri Bottas celebrates pole position for the sprint qualifying with Mercedes’ Lewis Hamilton in second position REUTERS/Massimo Pinca

Bottas is finally starting to hit his prime with Mercedes, after showcasing a dominant display at Monza. And the fact that Sochi is one of Bottas’ favorite tracks, he could well pull off another strong showing, especially considering the fact that his Mercedes will sport a much fresher power unit.

Overall, a tough weekend awaits Hamilton at Sochi amidst potential threats from Bottas and Verstappen. So, can the Briton fight the odds to finally claim his 100th race victory this weekend? Well, only time will tell.

Watch Story: Lewis Hamilton: Ranking His F1 World Titles From 2008 to 2020

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