Long Before Max Verstappen-Sky Sports Scandal, Lewis Hamilton Lashed Out on F1 Media Over Snapchat Antics

Formula 1 drivers put their lives on the line week-in-week-out for the entertainment of the millions of fans watching on. But to them, the media isn’t always as appreciative or respectful of this pursuit. 6 years apart, 2 World Champions showered their wrath upon the media, and some would say they had it coming.

Lewis Hamilton and Max Verstappen are two of the most committed and passionate men the F1 paddock has ever graced. It’s not unusual then to see their tempers flare when someone interferes with their matters.

Recently, Max Verstappen went on a boycott of Sky Sports when Ted Kravitz made comments about Verstappen’s 2021 Championship win and his tendency to always have controversial titles. But back in 2016, 7x Champion Hamilton gave the cold treatment to the media as well.

During a press conference, Hamilton was using Snapchat, and the media termed it as disrespectful. Next time, before walking out on the media, Hamilton said, “But what was more disrespectful is what was then written, worldwide. There are some people here and it’s not them that’s done it, and the decision I will take unfortunately affects those who have been super-supportive.”

Read More: “I’d Be in Detention…”: 7X World Champion Lewis Hamilton Opens Up On His Treacherous Journey to the Pinnacle of F1

Even though these incidents have played out 6 years apart, the rivalry that these two have shared is still very fresh. But a very special someone has now spoken up about what he thinks about the whole Verstappen v. Hamilton debate.

Mika Hakkinen gives perspective to the whole Lewis Hamilton v Max Verstappen debate

Mika Hakkinen did once go toe-to-toe with a certain 7x World Champion. So naturally, he does know a thing or two about going up against the very best this sport has to offer. He did have a very holistic perspective to give to the whole rivalry.

He said, “They are, first of all, great drivers. Lewis has shown over the years incredible skills and maturity, how he is talking about F1, himself, the fans. He’s a really great personality and of course his speed and experience on the racetrack is incredible.”

“Max is still a young gentleman, he’s achieved incredible results even at his young age and is a real fighter out there.”

WATCH THIS STORY: Lewis Hamilton’s Biggest F1 Crashes

Let’s settle this debate. Who do you think is better? Max Verstappen or Lewis Hamilton?