Hamilton explains why it's easier to hunt: 'Can get away with mistakes'

Lewis Hamilton admits he prefers being the hunter as opposed to being hunted, as he can get away with mistakes and regain. He says being in the lead is so much more nerve-wracking.

Lewis Hamilton is making his first appearance on Hot Ones on Thursday, something he admits to cancelling many times. During the interview, he admits that he prefers being behind, as it is less nerve-wracking than leading.

The first question in the clip released on Wednesday asks Hamilton about whether there is a mindset difference between being the hunter and the hunted. "Oh definitely" was Hamilton's response. "I think it's easier to hunt. If you're chasing and you make mistakes, you can get away with it. You fall two steps back and regain. But if you're leading, it's so much more nerve-wracking."

Hamilton hasn't been challenging at the front of the grid since 2021 when he lost out on his eighth world title to Max Verstappen. Since 2022, Mercedes have struggled to understand the new concept of cars, with George Russell taking their only win since the new regulations at the 2022 Brazilian Grand Prix.

The clip also gives Hamilton's response when someone pulls up alongside him at traffic lights, to which he said a younger version of himself would have said "I'm going to smoke this fool."

Watch the full clip below!