Max Verstappen Buries Rivalry With Lewis Hamilton With Special Ovation Over Personal Milestone

Max Verstappen and Lewis Hamilton are arguably two of the most gifted and talented drivers of the 21st century. Their rivalry in the 2021 F1 season had multiple action-packed races. But, as the tensions have subsided since that intense season, Verstappen’s recent special tribute to Lewis Hamilton has hinted at a surprising shift in their dynamic. This has invited fans to explore the personal dimensions behind their long-standing battle for the podium.

Verstappen had yet another day of breaking records, and cementing his legacy in F1. The race win at the United States Grand Prix marked his 50th F1 career win. A remarkable achievement, that too at the age of 26. The Dutchman is already an icon of the sport. But what’s more commendable is his modesty, as despite achieving this feat, he was all praises for his greatest rival ever.

Rivalry redefined: Unexpected gesture from Max Verstappen to Lewis Hamilton

During the post-race conference of the US GP, Max Verstappen was asked about his thoughts on achieving such an extraordinary milestone in his F1 career. Verstappen acknowledged the gravitas of the achievement. However, to everyone’s surprise, he was also modest and down-to-earth.

A humble Max paid homage to the modern-day GOAT, Lewis Hamilton, who was sitting next to him. Verstappen said, “Yeah I mean of course it’s a great number. Still rookie numbers compared to Lewis“ Even the LH army has to give credit to the Dutch driver who they often diss. Absolute class act from Verstappen.

Not only is he humble enough to downplay his historic achievement. But he also recognizes the greatness of Hamilton and what he has achieved in F1. This amazing ovation from Verstappen is likely to get some fans on his side. He is quite often hated by the fanbase of other drivers, especially Sergio Perez and Lewis Hamilton fans.

It’s not every day that we get to see a 26-year-old driver get 50 wins in F1. This becomes even more impressive when considering that he is just one win away from matching the great Alain Prost. And three wins away from matching the Red Bull icon, Sebastian Vettel.

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Moreover, this ovation from Verstappen further shows that when off-track, he is capable of putting aside his rivalry.

Can Verstappen overtake Vettel as the driver with the third most wins, in 2023?

From one Red Bull icon to another one in the making. Max Verstappen has the chance of achieving a feat most drivers only dream of. With there being only four races left in the current F1 calendar. Verstappen can make this season even more memorable by winning all the remaining races. Doing so would have him at 54 career wins in F1. Which is one more than the Sebastian Vettel!

While it sounds absolutely bonkers that Verstappen can potentially achieve this feat in the upcoming four races. The key question arises whether he can do it. And quite simply, yes! If anyone could do it, it’s the Dutch driver himself. Granted, the competition from McLaren and Mercedes is tough.

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Verstappen’s special ovation to Hamilton serves as a reminder that even the rivals can have moments of modesty and humbleness. Verstappen’s class act only proves why he is a champion on and off-track. But will he be able to overtake Sebastian Vettel in the number of wins?