Hamilton seems to appreciate Verstappen: 'Generally respectful'

Lewis Hamilton and Max Verstappen fought with each other frequently on track this season. Although both drivers were angry with each other on several occasions, Scott Mitchell sees that the men have always kept respect for each other.

The journalist writes for The Race a column, in which he compares the battle of 2021 with that of 2016. Back then, Nico Rosberg and Hamilton had to decide with each other in the same team which driver could crown himself world champion. It's no public secret that it caused a lot of tension, with the drivers getting into heated arguments.

Respect for Hamilton evident

Mitchell didn't see the same thing happening between Verstappen and Hamilton. Both drivers had negative comments about each other in the media at various Grands Prix, but according to the journalist that is part of the battle that was going on. At the same time he saw Hamilton continue to appreciate the qualities Verstappen showed to the outside world. This even happened in the last race, when Hamilton lost to Verstappen. The Briton stepped up to his rival to congratulate him.

"It was generally respectful with the odd goading remark, and some more emotional comments in the heat of the moment," Mitchell states in his column. "Especially when he felt wronged by Verstappen. None of that is indicative of Hamilton losing all respect for Verstappen, though."