Lewis Hamilton Labeled as a Second Choice
Finding yourself having to choose between two absolute superstars like Lewis Hamilton and Max Verstappen is a problem any team principal would love to have. While the British driver established his dominance during the hybrid era from 2014 to 2021 with Mercedes, Max Verstappen is now the undisputed master of a Formula 1 dominated by Red Bull, despite significant gains made by the competition in recent months.
By a twist of fate, Ferrari has finally managed to land the decisive blow for the seven-time Formula One champion, with Lewis Hamilton poised to put the cherry on top of an already exceptional career, which now stands to become legendary, especially if he secures an eighth title alongside the Maranello team.
However, according to Robert Doornbos, a former Red Bull driver and current commentator for Ziggo Sport, the Lewis Hamilton deal would have only been a second choice for Ferrari, which would have preferred to target Verstappen alongside Charles Leclerc: “I can’t wait to see Lewis at Ferrari.”
“I think Ferrari made a masterstroke by getting him, but obviously, they would have preferred Max. Ferrari can only become world champion with Max; they won’t manage it with Hamilton. He’s a second choice, but better second than third.” – the TV analayst believes.
“You can clearly see that Lewis is already saying goodbye to Mercedes, and vice versa,” added the Dutchman. “Everyone knows Hamilton is preparing for his farewell, because after Ferrari, there’s nothing more.”
“The Ferrari red is every driver’s dream, but remember that next year he’ll wake up soaked in sweat, because he’ll be driving behind Mercedes in his red Ferrari.” – Robert Doornbos believes.
Source: f1ingenerale
