'Sublime' Verstappen: 'He never once seemed to lose his composure'

Speaking in the F1 Nation Podcast, Damon Hill finds it hard to say what the story of the season is. Whereas Max Verstappen showed great performances at Red Bull Racing, Ferrari actually disappointed after a good start to the year. According to the former Formula One driver, the truth probably lies in the middle.

"It's not easy to decide which is more important: the brilliant season of Verstappen and Red Bull or the fact that Ferrari got in its own way," he explained. "When I see how promising the Italians' season had started, it is really regrettable."

Charles Leclerc managed to take wins in Bahrain and Australia early in the racing year, while he finished second in Saudi Arabia. It seemed that Verstappen was dealing with a new competitor, but that situation only continued for a few months.

Indeed, due to a number of stoppages and strategic mistakes, among others, Ferrari soon dropped out. Meanwhile, Verstappen managed to hold the line and managed to significantly extend his lead in the world championship.

Compliments for hard-working Verstappen

Although Hill is critical of Ferrari's performance, he feels all the compliments should go to Verstappen. "He drove all season with sublime brilliance. He never once seemed to lose his composure," said Hill, who hopes Ferrari manages to make a move in 2023.