“I Don’t Hold That Against Anybody” – Lewis Hamilton Explains Why He Sympathizes With Max Verstappen

Lewis Hamilton and Max Verstappen have produced a championship fight for the ages. The F1 fans will surely not forget this season as both drivers have gone full-tilt against each other. Hamilton mentioned that despite their intense battle, he does not feel any animosity towards Verstappen.

Hamilton has won 7 world championships in his career and has been involved in some of the most legendary championship fights in F1 history. He stated he has been in the sport long enough to not take the on-track battles off the track.

WATCH STORY: F1 Drivers Fighting on Track

I know that he’s a super-fast guy: Lewis Hamilton

As reported by Motorsport.com, the Mercedes driver explained he does not have a hostile relationship with Verstappen, comparing it to the one he had while fighting against Rosberg. He also mentioned that he understands what Verstappen is going through in the title fight.

“Look, I’ve raced against people who’ve shown something on one face, but actually it’s something different,” said Hamilton.

Formula One F1 – Qatar Grand Prix – Losail International Circuit, Lusail, Qatar – November 21, 2021, Mercedes’ Lewis Hamilton sprays champagne as he celebrates on the podium after winning the race with second-placed Red Bull’s Max Verstappen REUTERS/Thaier Al-Sudani

“I’m 36, I’ve been doing this a long time, so it’s not the first time I’ve been faced with a driver that’s been good and bad in certain ways. I think I’m in just a much better position to be able to handle that, to deal with that. Particularly in the limelight and the pressures of the sport.

“I know that he’s a super-fast guy, and he’s going to get stronger and stronger as he matures over time: which he will no doubt do,” said Hamilton.

READ MORE: Would Lewis Hamilton be regarded differently if he had not won the 2008 championship?

The Mercedes driver states the difference between him and Max at 24

Lewis Hamilton, just like Max Verstappen, is a generational talent. The Brit stated he made a lot of mistakes when he was Verstappen’s age. He dived into his struggles with the pressure and life in the limelight.

Formula One F1 – Brazilian Grand Prix – Jose Carlos Pace Circuit, Sao Paulo, Brazil – November 14, 2021, Mercedes’ Lewis Hamilton celebrates winning the race Pool via REUTERS/Lars Baron

“Look at me when I was 24 or 25. Jeez, the mistakes I was making back then. I had the speed, but I was going through a lot of different experiences outside the car and also being in the limelight, the pressures of being at the front.

I don’t think I did much right then, so I don’t hold that against anybody.” said the Mercedes driver.

It is refreshing to see Hamilton reflect on the emotions of his championship rival. The experience of fighting for championships has made the 7-time world champion more reflective and honest.

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