“Lando Norris, George Russell, Charles, and Carlos above all” – Lewis Hamilton has singled out the future stars of F1 and has words for his arch-rival Max Verstappen.
Lewis Hamilton doesn’t want to follow in the footsteps of Kimi Raikkonen and Fernando Alonso and continue racing after his late thirties. Speaking with Corriere della Sera in Italy, the reigning world champion spoke about how he is enjoying this season, as he continues to challenge himself every day.
“I honestly hope I’m not racing at 40. There are so many things I want to do that it would be difficult.
“But in life the evolution is so fast that it can surprise you. For example, I didn’t expect to have as much fun as I am having this season. I don’t think it’s because of Max or anyone else.
“The reason is because I’m discovering new things about myself every day. With the pandemic lockdowns I’ve had more time to refine my talent, body and mind.
“I’m always competing against myself. I think about how to beat myself, I look at how I was last year and how to beat a seven-time World Champion.”
F1 is in good hands – Lewis Hamilton
Hamilton expressed happiness at the rising of young stars in the sport, highlighting Carlos Sainz’s rise from Red Bull to McLaren to now at Ferrari. When asked if he compared himself against them, he replied in the negative.
“I don’t look at rivals much, but the new ones are great. Lando Norris, George Russell, Charles, and Carlos above all. He has just arrived at Ferrari and he is driving very well, with Leclerc he forms a very strong duo. F1 is in good hands, I predict a bright future.”
Predictably, he was also asked about his arch-rival and drivers’ standings leader Max Verstappen. Despite verbal duels taking place between the pair off the track, Hamilton maintained all is well, calling the Red Bull driver “an amazing driver”.
“Yes, on and off the track,” Hamilton said of the pair’s mutual respect. “And it doesn’t have to change. He’s an amazing driver and it’s a lot of fun to challenge him.”
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