Michael Schumacher’s ‘Outright Speed’ Not on Lewis Hamilton’s Level: Button

Michael Schumacher or Sir Lewis Hamilton, who is Formula 1’s greatest driver?

The Mercedes driver wrapped up the season on an extremely high note, equaling Michael Schumacher’s record of seven world titles.

Moreover, the Briton broke Schumacher’s record of most wins this past season. As he racked up win after win, both Mercedes and Hamilton continued their domination and claimed another championship in 2020.

Jenson Button, the former Formula 1 champion and Hamilton’s teammate, gives his view on the Schumacher and Hamilton debate. “Lewis is definitely one of the best drivers that has ever driven in Formula 1,” said the former F1 driver.

“It’s tricky but Lewis is definitely up there and, in terms of outright pace, he is probably the quickest over one lap. But a Grand Prix isn’t just one lap and so you have to throw a lot of great drivers into the mix.”

“Michael Schumacher for example for his dedication. His outright speed probably wasn’t on the same level as Lewis Hamilton but his dedication and how much time and effort he put in,” Button points out.

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Button admires Lewis Hamilton for his clean driving

Jenson Button pointed out one difference between Hamilton’s and Schumacher’s style of driving. When needed, Schumacher displayed an aggressive driving style on the grid. One only has to look as far as the 2000 Belgian Grand Prix and Schumacher’s battle with Mika Hakkinen.

The German was very aggressive while he defended his position against the Finnish driver. However, Button pointed out that Hamilton always played by the rules. “He’s a great racer, great to race wheel-to-wheel with and he will never do anything outside of the rules.

“Some of his moves were questionable on track but one of the things you can definitely say for Lewis and what I really like about him is he is very straightforward.  He is a very clean driver,” Button concluded.

Lewis Hamilton now holds the record for most wins, most pole positions, and equaled Schumacher’s record of world championship titles. Hamilton will hope to win the championship next season and officially become the most successful F1 driver in history. However, the Briton is facing a few challenges renegotiating his contract, do you believe Hamilton will stand atop the championship standing next season?