The ‘decade’ of Lewis Hamilton and Max Verstappen
The past ten years of Formula 1 have largely been dominated by two drivers. Lewis Hamilton claimed all the world titles from 2014 to 2020 (with the sole exception of 2016, when his former Mercedes teammate Nico Rosberg won). From 2021 onwards, no one has managed to dethrone Max Verstappen. Following the controversial conclusion of the 2021 season, the Dutchman established himself as the driver to beat, encountering no rival capable of challenging his dominance.
The differences according to Ralf Schumacher
Even the challenges faced last year couldn’t stop Red Bull’s #1, who emerged victorious in his battle with Lando Norris. According to former driver Ralf Schumacher, Max Verstappen possesses a talent that truly makes the difference, especially when compared to Lewis Hamilton. Now a pundit for Sky Deutschland, the brother of seven-time world champion Michael Schumacher praised Max Verstappen’s abilities: “He is genuinely capable of delivering that extra something that the truly exceptional world champions before him have shown,” he said. “There aren’t many, and honestly, I don’t include Lewis Hamilton in that list.”
Ralf Schumacher described Lewis Hamilton as “exceptional” but highlighted the differences between the Briton and the Dutchman in achieving success: “Lewis needs a garage with the perfect environment and car, just like Sebastian Vettel.” Max Verstappen, on the other hand, doesn’t necessarily require such conditions, as evidenced by his 2024 championship victory despite the challenges faced: “The car was superior at the start, then a disaster,” Schumacher concluded. “Despite all the setbacks, he always continued working well with his team and consistently gave his best. Compared to his teammate, he’s absolutely incredible.”
