Hamilton hails Vettel as F1’s most complete human being

12:10, 06 Nov

Updated: 12:12, 06 Nov

byKada Sarkozi

Lewis Hamilton has high praise for his former rival Sebastian Vettel, sharing that the two still talk frequently to this day.

"We stay in touch. He supports me through my weekends. He sends me texts."

- Lewis Hamilton

The seven-time driver fought many fierce battles with the German in the past, who retired from Formula 1 after 2022.

According to Hamilton, the four-time world champion is one of the best people he has met in the paddock.

Speaking to ESPN, Hamilton said they still share a great relationship. "For me, I think out of all the drivers that I've come across in my career, he for me is the most all-round driver.

"When I talk about an all-round driver, I mean as a human being. Someone that has empathy. Someone that understands, that's super, super competitive. But [can] put that aside.

"He understands people, he understands that there's a much bigger picture than just us. And there's no 'me, me, me' with him. It's about bringing people together. And I love that he's utilising his platform.

Vettel and Hamilton at the 2024 Sao Paulo GP - Photo: Race Pictures

"He stood by me through quite an intense time. He's doing great things today."

The current and the former Ferrari driver still talk frequently, even during Grand Prix weekends, Hamilton revealed. "We stay in touch. He supports me through my weekends. He sends me texts. I'm forever grateful for the relationship."

Vettel returns to the paddock for the Sao Paulo GP

The German will once again be in the paddock this upcoming weekend at Interlagos in the Fan Zone, the organizers confirmed on social media.

This will be the first time since the Saudi Arabian GP Vettel will be present, where he hosted his grassroots karting programme Race4Women [Challenge Me] for female drivers at the Jeddah circuit.

Vettel was also present at the 2024 Sao Paolo GP on the 30th anniversary of Brazilian legend Ayrton Senna's passing.

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