“Mercedes Had How Many Wins With Hamilton?”: Helmut Marko Drags Lewis Through the Dirt to Dismiss Scathing Accusations Against Red Bull

Regulation changes define the eras in motorsports. In return, one team gets to dominate that era. We saw Red Bull enjoy that during the Sebastian Vettel era, and Mercedes during the Lewis Hamilton era. Now, Red Bull is back at it with Max Verstappen as the new face of the modern, post-2022 regulation changes. Every team has their time and the top dog gets the bone.

Hamilton ruled the sport for eight years during the turbo-hybrid era starting in 2014, amassing an 82-win record driving for the German team. During this dream run of Hamilton, Nico Rosberg was the only driver who managed to clinch one championship out of 7 until 2021, with a total of 23 wins during that time. When we compare this to RBR’s record after their 100th win, Verstappen accounts for 41 of those and Vettel has 38.

The almost equal share of race wins and championships divided between the two drivers offended Helmut Marko when suggested Red Bull is built around one man, dragging Hamilton and Mercedes through the mud. Speaking on the F1 Nation podcast, he stated, “Mercedes had how many wins with [Lewis] Hamilton?“ asked Marko before bringing Rosberg into the conversation.

“[It was] only one year where Nico [Rosberg] was really strong. But, I think Max [Verstappen] is such a strong driver that at least Checo [Perez] survived two years already. You have to see it this way.”

No one can argue with Marko there. However, with Verstappen contracted till 2028 and the way things are going, he might not have a leg to stand on in a few years. In fact, some believe Verstappen will rack up 10 championships by the end of his career.

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Lewis Hamilton asked to secure his 8th quickly with Max Verstappen Juggernaut looming large

Many crave a repeat of the 2021 championship to get their hearts racing again, even the drivers. However, with how things have progressed and according to Marko, Hamilton is not even a threat anymore. Former team owner Eddie Jordan echoed Marko’s thoughts and issued a concerning warning to Hamilton.

He said, “If everything stays well with Max, and I’m hoping that it will mentally and physically and everything to do with the car, Max is gonna hit ten world championships. Because he’s that young and that good. How fast is he? He’s just ridiculous.” Sending a warning Hamilton’s way, he continued, “I think Lewis needs to get on his bike and hurry up and get number eight because it’s soon to be passed up by Max.”

No team is omnipotent. However, with the way Red Bull is progressing, it certainly seems so. So before it’s too late, Hamilton needs to try everything in his power to clinch his eighth or watch Verstappen do it before him.

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