Rally champion supports Hamilton: 'He's been robbed'

More than a month after the final Grand Prix of the season, the outcome continues to preoccupy the international motorsport world. Almost everyone seems to have had their say on it already. Former rally champion Sébastien Ogier had not yet done so.

Ogier himself grabbed seven world titles in rallying, as many world titles as Lewis Hamilton in Formula 1. The Frenchman also followed the last race in Abu Dhabi closely. In conversation with AutoHebdo he tells that both Max Verstappen and Hamilton are worthy champions. But the way Verstappen eventually captured the title, that's what Ogier has a problem with.

Ogier now states unequivocally that Hamilton should have been champion. "He was robbed," says Ogier. "There are no other words for it." However, the rally driver adds that in his eyes Verstappen would not deserve the title either, as the Dutchman has had a great season.

Hamilton has not said a word since the race in Abu Dhabi. It is even still unclear whether the Briton will be behind the wheel of the Mercedes again next season. "It is true that this is theft and that is difficult for Hamilton to accept," Ogier states. He therefore understands why Hamilton's total silence.