Hamilton Unfazed by Red Bull Speculations, Regardless of Verstappen's Preferences
Lewis Hamilton appears unfazed by the idea of sharing the track with Max Verstappen, despite his belief that the Dutch driver might not be thrilled with the notion. The seven-time Formula 1 world champion, set to race for Mercedes in this year's Abu Dhabi Grand Prix and beyond, until 2025, remains optimistic about the possibility.
"I'd relish the chance to race alongside Max in the same vehicle. It would be a delight," Hamilton said, referencing their equal standing. However, he expressed doubts about Verstappen's desire for the arrangement. "I don't think he's keen on the idea," he added with a smile.
Under Fire for Alleged Team Switches
Rumors swirled that Christian Horner contacted Red Bull before renewing Verstappen's contract, according to the British newspaper "Daily Mail." Hamilton addressed these speculations by acknowledging the people who frequently drop his name into conversations to make headlines. He shrugged off the issue, maintaining his composure amidst the rumor mill.
In the aftermath of his defeat during the 2020 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, Hamilton couldn't resist taking a jab at Horner. He hinted that the team principal might crave attention due to his isolation. Without explicitly referring to Horner again, he remarked, "When you're feeling overlooked and yearning for attention, mentioning my name is just perfect."
Red Bull's Timely Instagram Post
Red Bull Racing's decision to post a video on Instagram featuring Horner and Verstappen's memorable 2021 triumph sparked fresh debate about potential future collaborations. While the timing seemed purposeful, Red Bull Racing insisted it was merely a coincidence. The already tense atmosphere between the dominant Red Bull team and Mercedes is unlikely to subside during the winter break.
However, the likelihood of Hamilton and Verstappen racing together in the same team appears highly improbable. Their competitive history and current team affiliations make a joint team unlikely.
Source: dpa.com
Enrichment Data:
The idea of Hamilton and Verstappen racing together in the same team is highly unlikely due to their past competition history, with Verstappen currently under contract with Red Bull Racing until 2028, while Hamilton will join Ferrari in 2025. Their fierce rivalry, particularly during the 2021 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, suggests that a joint team would be far from a straightforward arrangement.
Despite speculations of Horner and Red Bull contacting Hamilton about a potential move, Mercedes has instead signed rookie Andrea Kimi Antonelli to race alongside George Russell in the 2025 season. With Horner's comments expressing confidence in Verstappen's commitment to Red Bull Racing, it appears that any collaboration between the two drivers will have to wait.
Details:
Lewis Hamilton will join Ferrari for the 2025 season, replacing Charles Leclerc as the team's primary driver.
Max Verstappen remains with Red Bull Racing, contracted until 2028.
Red Bull adviser Helmut Marko has expressed confidence that Verstappen will stay with the team, despite speculation about potential exit clauses if the team fails to provide a competitive car. Mercedes, which was mentioned as a potential destination for Verstappen, has instead signed rookie Andrea Kimi Antonelli to pair with George Russell for the 2025 season.
