The Dutch GP saw Max Verstappen secure his 11th victory of the ’23 season, extending his record-equalling streak of nine wins in a row equaling Sebastian Vettel’s record. Fernando Alonso‘s impressive performance, landing him in P2, highlighted his resurgence in form, while Lewis Hamilton recovering to P6, showcased his tenacity. However, the key contention arises when analyzing the pace and consistency of the drivers. An ex-Ferrari boss emphasized that Hamilton’s laps lacked the consistency displayed by both Verstappen and Alonso, casting doubt on the assertion that Hamilton had the pace to challenge the race leader.

After the Dutch GP Hamilton believed he had the pace to challenge his nemesis. The Briton’s chances to challenge Verstappen seemed plausible despite a subpar qualifying and mistimed strategy calls. Starting from P13, Hamilton managed to maneuver through the field, showcasing his determination and skill. Lewis’s confidence in his race pace was evident as he expressed his belief in challenging the frontrunners. He stated, “Today I had the pace, in those conditions if we’ve made the right [strategy] calls, we had the pace to be challenging the top two. We would have been challenging Max, particularly when we got to the dry pace-wise we weren’t terribly far off.” Hamilton’s assertion indicated his conviction in the potential of his car and strategy to challenge Verstappen’s dominance.

However, a closer look at the race dynamics by former Ferrari manager Peter Windsor revealed a harsh Alonso reality that puts Hamilton’s claims into question. In the live F1 Dutch GP debrief, Windsor analyzed, “Starting from lap 50 down to lap 60, he’s (Alonso) got 3 laps in the thirteens ending in a 13:8, and he’s got 3 laps at 14-1. Lewis over the same period when he also set his fastest lap, and it’s that fastest lap that I think has given Toto quite a lot of encouragement, obviously, 13-9 compared with Fernando’s 13-8.”

“We were right there sort of thing, but look at the consistency or lack of consistency if you’d like. Compared with Fernando in pace, I would not say that the Mercedes was a quicker car than the Aston Martin around Zandvoort, which is what Toto Wolff is saying; he (Hamilton) couldn’t get past the Ferrari because of its lack of top speed.”

This analysis hinted at the complexities of Mercedes’ true performance potential. The performance data indicates that the gap between Mercedes and Red Bull might have been greater than Hamilton’s statements suggest. While Hamilton strives to challenge Verstappen’s supremacy, the Dutchman himself revels in the thrill of dominating the 2023 season.

Read more: Amidst $54,000,000 Tussle With Mercedes Intensifying, Lewis Hamilton Pronounces Decision on F1 Future

Max Verstappen’s preference for dominance

As Max Verstappen continues his dominant streak, he revealed his preference for the current state of affairs compared to the intense battles he had with Lewis Hamilton in 2021. Despite the epic season-long duel that resulted in Verstappen’s first title win, the Dutch driver finds more enjoyment in his current position of dominance. He stated, “I have a lot more fun now… I like to win. I like to dominate.” For Verstappen, the joy of leading and dominating the races aligns with his desire for excellence.

While Hamilton seeks to close the performance gap and fight for victory, Verstappen finds fulfillment in leading the pack and enjoying the fruits of his hard work. Verstappen’s expectations for the 2023 season were modest, considering the level of competition he anticipated after a dominant 2022. He believed that other teams would close the gap and challenge Red Bull’s supremacy. However, the reality has been quite the opposite, with Verstappen and his team maintaining a substantial lead.

What do you think does anyone on the grid have the pace to challenge Max Verstappen?

WATCH THIS STORY | Clouded Future: $54M Deal in Doubt as Hurdle Hits Hamilton’s Mercedes Contract