via Imago
Image Courtesy: Imago L: Lewis Hamilton and R: Max Verstappen
via Imago
Image Courtesy: Imago L: Lewis Hamilton and R: Max Verstappen
As the world of Formula 1 stands witness to one of the fiercest rivalries in recent history, the debate surrounding the challenges faced by legends Lewis Hamilton and Max Verstappen in relation to their respective teammates rages on. A dynamic study conducted by the YouTube channel “The Race” ventures deep into this contentious subject, attempting to unravel the nuanced realities of Hamilton and Verstappen’s journeys so far.
Following a systematic analysis that involved tallying and averaging the final scores representing the caliber of teammates, the findings offer a compelling argument in favor of Lewis Hamilton. As they say, numbers don’t lie, it could also establish a solid ground for the Briton’s comments on the heightened level of competition he has faced compared to Verstappen.
The scrutiny unveiled Hamilton’s teammates holding an average rating of 7.0 out of 10, a figure that overshadows the 5.6 out of 10 average rating of Verstappen’s teammates. This significant difference paints a portrait of Hamilton’s path being strewn with a tougher set of adversaries, proposing a substantial backbone to the argument that Hamilton has. To quote from the video,
“Hamilton is making a valid point in the sense that it’s clear from our ratings Hamilton has overall faced a tougher set of teammates than Verstappen has so far.”
As we delve deeper into the details and implications of this analysis, we find a vibrant dialogue unfolding, one that offers a fresh lens through which to view the undying rivalry that continues to define this era of Formula 1 racing.
This dialogue of rivalry extends to Hamilton’s recent two-year Mercedes extension. Yet, as the ink dries on this significant agreement, a chorus of controversy envelops the reigning champion, echoing criticisms from racing legend and three-time World Champion, Sir Jackie Stewart.
Lewis Hamilton and the two-year deal controversy
Hamilton’s extension ensures he stays in the team until the end of the 2025 season. However, amidst the celebrations, Hamilton found himself embroiled in controversy, facing criticism from three-time World Champion Sir Jackie Stewart. In a recent chat with BILD, Stewart praised but questioned Hamilton’s current dedication. He described Hamilton’s Mercedes tenure as largely uncompetitive.
via Imago
Formula 1 Lenovo British Grand Prix Sir Jackie Stewart arrives at the Paddock during the Formula 1 Aramco British Grand Prix at Silverstone, Towcester, Northamptonshire, UK on July 08 2023. Lee Floyd, Credit:Lee Floyd / Avalon UK, Northamptonshire, Towcester, Silverstone PUBLICATIONxNOTxINxUKxFRAxUSA Copyright: xLeexFloydx/xAvalonx 0787904834
Stewart said, “But the truth is that in the last decade he competed with Mercedes for a team that was virtually out of competition. During this time, Lewis only had one real competitor: his respective team-mate. Except for 2016, he always emerged victorious from the duel. And then he lost to Nico Rosberg. With respect: a good driver, but not the most talented in the world.”
The 3-time champion further elaborated on how Nico & Lewis were at different levels in terms of their drive, “But Rosberg was hungry and had the absolute will to become world champion. Lewis no longer has that hunger. Because of that – and because the car is no longer quite as powerful – he has serious problems.”
With a refreshed contract, Hamilton will hopefully enter the rest of the 2023 season and the ones coming, with a determination to rise above criticism and return to his winning ways, equipped with experience and a team united in their goal to reclaim victory.
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