Hill exceptionally complimentary about Verstappen, but also makes a remark

15:52, 30 Jun

byHidde Korte

Max Verstappen, with four world titles, ranks among the greatest drivers in Formula 1 history. He clinched the championship over the past four years. Comparisons with other big names in the sport are often drawn. Damon Hill also sees Verstappen as a great, although he does add a remark.

Verstappen captured his first world title in 2021, and since then, the Dutchman has been the man to beat in the sport. In 2023, Verstappen even won 19 out of 22 races, setting a record for most victories. In an interview with The Guardian, Hill places Verstappen in the same league as Senna and Schumacher.

Max Verstappen before the Austrian Grand Prix

"Yes, he is of the same caliber. Max is disciplined and astute, trained to fight. But the whole point of this sport is facing an opponent or arch-enemy who defines you. I don’t think Formula 1 holds the same gravitas as in the era we are discussing.'

''From their perspective, it's serious competition, but I'm not sure if anyone has yet matched Max’s seriousness. Until that happens, he doesn't have a true counterpoint. In the past, you had to be really tough to compete against Alan Jones, Lauda, and Hunt when he was on form. They were relentless.’’

Hill compares Verstappen and Alonso

In the interview, Hill also sees a number of similarities between Alonso and Verstappen: ‘’Max and [43-year-old] Fernando Alonso are the same. Max always gives 100%. The same goes for Fernando, who is cunning and clever. I wouldn't want to play a card game against him.’’ During the race in Austria, Alonso managed to keep rookie Gabriel Bortoleto behind him, who was full of praise for the Spaniard's driving style.