Lewis Hamilton is currently in pursuit of a whopping eighth world title but is facing a massive threat in Max Verstappen, who is possessing a much faster car in hand. However, despite the pace disadvantage, a former F1 driver opened up about how Hamilton might still go on to win the title this season.
Ex-Haas F1 driver, Romain Grosjean, is considering the seven-time world champion to be one of the most consistent drivers in the history of the sport and reckoned the Briton rarely falls victim to on-track mishaps.
What did Grosjean say?
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The Frenchman, who is just weeks away from taking the Mercedes for a stroll around his home circuit, opened up about the one aspect that Hamilton stands out from other drivers.
“He doesn’t make mistakes. Very Rarely; he made one in Imola but then he recovered nicely from it. So, generally, even in tricky conditions, you know, Turkey last year was a good example on the wet,” he said while featuring in Beyond the Grid podcast.
“When Valtteri [Bottas] had a bit of a nightmare afternoon, spinning around, Lewis stayed on track and clinched his 7th world title and didn’t make mistakes.”
The 2020 Turkish Grand Prix race had twists and turns throughout the afternoon, but it initially looked like either of the Racing Point drivers might grab onto the race win. What’s more, Hamilton was nowhere near the top three until halfway through the race.
But what followed was the seven-time world champion’s masterclass. While others pitted twice, the Briton opted for a one-stopper. And despite running on an almost-dead set of tires, Hamilton managed to see the checkered flag in P1, with a lead of over 30 seconds.
When it’s go-time, Lewis Hamilton is there
Grosjean opened up that Hamilton never makes costly mistakes during race days, and he restricts such blunders to practice sessions.
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“That is one thing we must admit is that Lewis very rarely makes mistakes that is costly,” Grosjean said. “He spins, he may crash in free practice. That happens to all of us. But when it’s go-time, he is there.”
The last time Hamilton made a massive mess-up was back in 2019 at the German Grand Prix. The damp Hockenheim circuit caused the Briton to hydroplane into the barriers, damaging his front wing. Ultimately, Hamilton ended up P9 in the race.
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Almost three seasons have gone by, and the 36-year-old has kept his nose clean so far. So, can he maintain this incredible streak through 2021, and secure what will be a record-breaking eighth championship title?
Read More: “I Deserve My Respect” – Lewis Hamilton Shuts Down Critics Following Emphatic Turkish GP Win