Lewis Hamilton’s Maiden Title BTS a Mirror to His Defeat Against Max Verstappen for Dutch Lion’s First

Formula 1 has produced many dramatic finales for the championship over the years. From Kimi Raikkonen’s title in 2007, Lewis Hamilton’s the next year, or Max Verstappen winning his first in Abu Dhabi, there’s no shortage of drama. In a recent episode of In The Fast Lane podcast, former McLaren mechanic Marc Priestley compares the similarities between Lewis’ 2008 win and Verstappen’s win last year.

Max Verstappen stunned the world as he went past Lewis Hamilton in the final lap to win his first-ever title. While the Red Bull team celebrated, Lewis Hamilton and the Mercedes camp were dejected, to say the least. To many, it reminded them of Hamilton’s first triumph in Brazil when he beat Massa in theatrical conditions.

Marc Priestley, who worked with McLaren at the time, compared the two scenarios. He said, “Last year in Abu Dhabi was the 2008 championship were hanging in the balance for the last lap of the race. I know it’s very different but it was inside the garage.” He continued, “Going into the final lap of our race in 2008, we weren’t in the position to win the championship.” 

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He further added, “Everyone remembers that moment we overtook Timo Glock in the final corner of the final lap of the final race of the season. It was amazing. I guess there were some similarities, so what I appreciated was the emotional rollercoaster the guys and girls in both of the garages in Mercedes and Red Bull must’ve been going through last year.”

Max Verstappen welcomes Lewis Hamilton’s decision to drive till his 40s

This season might not have seen the best of Lewis Hamilton and Mercedes. But Max Verstappen swept the floor with his RB18 and raced to his second world championship. Moreover, he also welcomed Hamilton’s decision to race in his 40s and predicted many great battles down the road.

Max Verstappen said, “He has to do what he feels is right and as long as he wants to race, he should do it. From our side, we have had already great battles. I’m sure that in the coming years, all the teams will get a bit closer anyway, so it will be interesting to see who is up there to fight.”

He added, “Everyone is different. Every single driver is different to race against. I have had different kinds of battles anyway and like I said before, every driver is different in battle.”

The Mercedes driver has openly talked about his interest to extend his current Mercedes deal. Additionally, Toto Wolff has also indicated that it was just a matter of time before Mercedes offered Lewis an extension.

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Hamilton won his maiden title in just his second year in F1, whereas Verstappen won it after 6 years. However, their first title win had many similarities. Which driver’s triumph to the top did you enjoy more?