F1 Insider Reveals the ‘Deep-Rooted Respect’ Hamilton & Verstappen Share Off the Race Track

The inaugural Saudi Arabian Grand Prix was simply in a class by itself. The race had it all; hard-line racing, multiple interruptions, and some controversial decisions as well. In the end, Max Verstappen and Lewis Hamilton find themselves on equal points going into the season finale.

The last race left the Red Bull ace so dejected that he left the podium without celebrating his hard-earned P2. The atmosphere has been pretty tense between the two on many occasions this season. Former F1 driver David Coulthard gave some rare insights into the personal relationship of Max Verstappen and Lewis Hamilton.

Racing respect between Lewis Hamilton and Max Verstappen

In a podcast hosted by F1 Nation, David Coulthard and Tom Clarkson shed light on the personal relationship between the title contenders. Tom went on to share an incident after the qualifying involving the two. They had a little chat about the latter’s crash into the final corner while he was on his flying lap. “There was genuine banter. I was so surprised how open they were to each other. I think there is deep-rooted respect between the two”

Following up, Coulthard said that the hard-line banter between the two is reminiscent of the relationship between former world champions Alian Prost and Aryton Senna. The Briton believes that the on-track rivals share a great respect for each other. “I think I agree, there is respect. They are both professional. And they have given us a rare piece of racing history. More people are tuning into Formula 1 than we’ve seen in previous years,” said Coulthard.

Who will clinch the title in Abu Dhabi

After 21 rounds of this championship, the difference in points between the two title contenders stands at zero. This is going to be settled in the most dramatic manner; in the last race at the Yas Marina Circuit on 12th December. Hamilton won the last race in Jeddah amidst all the chaos and pressure.

“It was difficult but we persevered as a Team. We’ve had all sorts of things thrown at us in the second half of this season so I’m just really proud of everyone,” said Hamilton after winning in Jeddah.

On the other hand, Max Verstappen did not have an ideal weekend in Jeddah. He will be looking forward to ending the season on a high note. “We’re on equal points now heading into the final race, it’s going to be an exciting end to the season,” said The Dutchman.

Lewis Hamilton will go into the final race after three back-to-back victories. On the other hand, Max will take the trophy home if both of them do not finish in Abu Dhabi. What are your predictions about the final race of the season?

Read More- Lewis Hamilton Reveals How the Controversial Max Verstappen Fight at Jeddah Felt Like Deja Vu