When it comes to the remarkable achievements of Max Verstappen and Lewis Hamilton, statistics often highlight their exceptional prowess on the racetrack. However, during the thrilling Sao Paulo Grand Prix weekend, an impressive record for both drivers came to an unexpected halt.
The race exemplified a stark contrast in fortunes for the two champion drivers. Hamilton struggled throughout the race, ultimately finishing in a disappointing P10, while Verstappen showcased his driving talent, efficiently navigating through the field to secure victory after an impressive streak of 10 races. The 26 points he earned — 25 for clinching the race win and an additional point for setting the fastest lap — solidified his strong position in the drivers’ championship standings.
Before the exhilarating race unfolded, both Verstappen and Hamilton experienced a frustrating qualifying session. Over nearly 10 years of competition, this marked the first instance where both legendary drivers failed to advance into Q3, emphasizing the unpredictability of Formula 1 racing.
Throughout their shared decade of racing, Verstappen and Hamilton have collectively claimed eight championships, with the Briton securing five of those titles. If Verstappen continues his dominant form into the 2024 championship season — which seems highly likely — he will bring their total to nine championships shared between them. Notably, the only other driver to break this duo’s dominance was Nico Rosberg, who triumphed in 2016.
Most Wins Since Barcelona 2016:
Max Verstappen – 62
Lewis Hamilton – 62
All other drivers combined – 59No other driver has more than 11 wins during that span. Total domination by these two. pic.twitter.com/29O3z8su8l
— Daniel Valente ️ (@F1GuyDan) November 7, 2024
Another notable statistic underscoring their shared supremacy is their remarkable win record. Since the pivotal 2016 Spanish GP, both Verstappen and Hamilton have each clinched 62 race victories. In stark contrast, their competitors have only amassed a combined total of 59 wins, with no other driver surpassing the 11-win mark, a feat achieved by Sebastian Vettel.
No end in sight for the Verstappen-Hamilton domination
Verstappen embarked on his Formula 1 career in 2015 with Toro Rosso before moving up to the premier Red Bull Racing team. Early in his journey, he witnessed Mercedes’ unparalleled dominance with Hamilton leading the charge. This reign was challenged dramatically in 2021, culminating in a gripping battle that extended to the very last lap of the season’s final race.
Verstappen’s championship journey initiated that fateful year, and he has maintained that success ever since. However, the current season of 2024 has posed challenges for the reigning champion. With fierce competition from teams like McLaren, Ferrari, and Mercedes securing victories, the 27-year-old has had to engage in relentless battles to retain his lead in the standings.
Looking ahead, the competition is expected to intensify in 2025 as the development of Red Bull’s car appears to be reaching a plateau ahead of a transformative new era of regulations. Simultaneously, rival teams like Ferrari are making significant strides in performance, and the prospect of Hamilton joining their ranks presents an even tougher challenge for Verstappen moving forward.
**Interview with F1 Expert, Laura Mitchell**
**Host:** Welcome, Laura! It’s great to have you here to discuss the latest in Formula 1, particularly the intense rivalry between Lewis Hamilton and Max Verstappen. Recent interviews and events have stirred the pot quite a bit.
**Laura:** Thank you for having me! Yes, it’s an exciting time in F1, especially with the recent comments from Hamilton reflecting on that controversial Abu Dhabi 2021 finale.
**Host:** Indeed! In a recent interview, Hamilton stated that Verstappen “stole” the title from him in 2021. How do you think that mindset affects him as he navigates this season?
**Laura:** Hamilton’s comments reveal a lot about his competitive spirit and emotional investment in the sport. Even years later, the pain of losing that way still resonates. Such a mindset can be both a motivator and a burden. It can drive him to perform better, but if he dwells on it too much, it might hinder his current performance.
**Host:** Speaking of performance, the recent Sao Paulo Grand Prix showcased a stark difference between them. Hamilton finished P10, while Verstappen dominated the race. What do you think contributed to this outcome?
**Laura:** The Sao Paulo GP was a clear demonstration of Verstappen’s skill. He navigated through challenges seamlessly and capitalized on opportunities, while Hamilton struggled to find pace. Additionally, both faced a rare glitch in qualifying, failing to make it to Q3, which reflects the unpredictability of racing. It shows that even the best can have off days.
**Host:** That unpredictability is what makes F1 exciting, isn’t it? Now, with both drivers tied for wins since 2016, what does that say about their dominance in the sport?
**Laura:** It’s remarkable! Their ability to secure 62 wins each since 2016 highlights not just their individual talents but also their teams’ performance. While they’ve been dominant, it also exposes how challenging it has been for other drivers to break through. They’ve created a legacy that raises the bar for what it takes to win in Formula 1.
**Host:** Looking ahead, if Verstappen continues this level of performance through the 2024 season, the duo will have 9 championships between them. Can you foresee any challenges from other drivers or teams?
**Laura:** It’s tough to predict. Teams like Ferrari and Mercedes have made strides, and drivers like Charles Leclerc and George Russell are talented challengers. However, unless something significant changes in car performance or strategy, it seems likely that the Hamilton-Verstappen rivalry will still dominate the headlines for the foreseeable future.
**Host:** Thank you, Laura! Your insights always help clarify the nuances in such a thrilling sport. We’ll keep an eye on how this season unfolds as both drivers continue their legendary battles on the track.
**Laura:** My pleasure! I can’t wait to see what happens next in this incredible season of Formula 1.