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'Psychologically, Hamilton's action must have an impact on Verstappen'

'Psychologically, Hamilton's action must have an impact on Verstappen'

20-07-2021 18:23 Last update: 19:37
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GPblog.com

Even two days after the spectacular and much talked about Silverstone Grand Prix, Max Verstappen and Lewis Hamilton are still the talk of the day. In several podcasts the time is mainly filled with who was guilty and if the penalty was sufficient. People haven't finished talking about that yet. Neither is Damon Hill.

Lewis Hamilton was eventually given a ten second penalty for hitting Verstappen. In the Nations Podcast of F1 Hill says that the move Hamilton made last weekend and caused Verstappen to crash was a statement towards the Dutchman.

"It was Lewis who said: I'm a street fighter and if you want to be rough with me I'll show you what I can do. And psychologically that must have had an impact on Max. It must have. It makes him realise that Hamilton will not shy away from a fight and that will put Max on his mental notes."

Masi must ensure more discipline with penalties

Because making an overtake at such speeds with major consequences is life-threatening. Last weekend's incident, in which Verstappen had to endure 51G, was living proof of that. Hill sees an important role in this for Michael Masi, race director of Formula 1.

"When should Masi step in and say 'there are things that cannot be done in this sport and at this speed'. There are dangers and safety risks that need to be considered. So he will have to ensure discipline in some way and he will have to hand out penalties when two cars hit each other."

Red Bull are going to look through the legal route to see if there could be more consequences for Hamilton after all. What exactly this will be remains to be seen.