Max Verstappen Repulsed By Lewis Hamilton’s Championship Beliefs Long Before He Tasted His First Title

Max Verstappen may have been the chosen one to dethrone Lewis Hamilton from his Mercedes throne, but he has only just begun his journey. Still new to the game, Verstappen’s first title came long after Hamilton’s. But years before Verstappen lay his hand on the trophy, he dreamed what it would be like, and snubbed Hamilton in the process.

Back in 2017, the Red Bull wunderkind sat down in his childhood garage and looked into the future where he would be world champion. Imagining the day, Verstappen imagined celebrating the moment he becomes champion. True to his nature, he would do nothing out of the ordinary: “‘Yes, not bad’ I will say then.”

The determined driver had also added, with great foresight, “It would be a great moment, and then you will try to achieve it again until you are old enough to stop.”

However, while Hamilton had similar dreams and ambitions as a rookie, and a similar mindset to keep winning championships, the two differ in what drives them to the top.

Max Verstappen refutes Lewis Hamilton claim

In the same interview, Verstappen is made aware of Hamilton’s take that race wins are better than world championships. At the time, Hamilton would have had 3 titles to his name, and thus, substantial experience.

Hamilton’s argument was that winning the title was but a “brief moment.” Victories on the other hand, “means hard work in the car, in your office.”

But clouded by the dream of the title, Verstappen debated, “I think becoming world champion would be the superior feeling. There is a race every week, you do not really enjoy it. If you become world champion, you can enjoy it for three, four months.”

Now, as Verstappen chases his third title in 2023, his mentality seems to be the same. The driver is as thirsty as ever for the victor’s champagne, refusing to settle for anything less. However, it’s the championship that drives him.

Does Hamilton still believe in his words?

Lewis Hamilton is undeniably the most successful driver in F1 history. Love him or hate him, the stats speak for itself. His race wins alone are nothing short of remarkable. 103 Grand Prix victories are no easy feat; that’s more than what any driver has accomplished in almost 80 years of F1.

Thus, there is no doubt that he pursues excellence relentlessly. Race wins aside, his championships have defined his legacy. Matching Michael Schumacher’s record, the argument of whether wins were more important than titles becomes null and void.

Each victory represents a moment of personal satisfaction, significant of his efforts within the race, while his championships signify his consistency and dedication within it all.

Ultimately, both play an important part in Hamilton’s history. Especially now. With people questioning his need to retire during a slump in his career, look at his past. Race wins will continue to be chased, and that 8th championship will be conquered.