F1 News
Hakkinen compares Hamilton to Verstappen: 'His speed is incredible'
- GPblog.com
In 2021, Max Verstappen and Lewis Hamilton entered the title battle with each other, this season the seven-time world champion has had to watch as the Dutchman took home his second world title in dominant fashion. Mika Hakkinen sees that the two rivals both have their own strengths.
Mercedes has had problems developing the W13 from the beginning of the year. Since the summer break, however, the team seems to be getting better and better. Consequently, in the last few races, Hamilton came closer to his first win of the season. In Austin and Mexico, Verstappen and his rival finished first and second, as they often did in 2021.
If Mercedes can introduce a car that is consistently faster in 2023, we may start to see a repeat of the title fight between Verstappen and Hamilton. Speaking to The Race Hakkinen praises the two drivers because of their different qualities.
"They are, first of all, great drivers. Lewis has shown over the years incredible skills and maturity, how he is talking about F1, himself, the fans. He’s a really great personality and of course his speed and experience on the racetrack is incredible. Max is still a young gentleman, he’s achieved incredible results even at his young age and is a real fighter out there. When you’re racing against him, you don’t want to be racing against him", the Finn begins.
'Hamilton and Verstappen fantastic drivers'
Hakkinen himself fought Michael Schumacher for several seasons. In 1998 and 2000, the title fight between the two drivers did not come to an end until the final round of the season, just like with Hamilton and Verstappen in 2021. The two-time world champion sees several similarities.
"When we talk about Max and Lewis there’s some similar situations. You have to know what risks you’re taking with the competitor you’re racing against. We’ve seen some incredible situations with Max and Lewis. They’re fantastic, talented drivers", Hakkinen ends.