Verstappen Shocks Fans By Naming His Two Best F1 Drivers On The Current Grid

A Champion Speaks His Mind

Max Verstappen is not shy about giving his views. The current world champion has now made headlines by making known to the world who he believes are the two best drivers in the current Formula 1 grid. His words are heavy in a sport full of egos and rivalries. His comments are already being broken down by fans and other drivers as to what they say about his mindset and the competitive world.

Who Verstappen Chose

Verstappen was asked to choose the best among his colleagues, and he did not hesitate to mention two names. He mentioned that the most complete drivers in the current racing are Lewis Hamilton and Fernando Alonso. “Lewis has proven himself for years, and Fernando shows every weekend that he still has it,” Verstappen said. The fact that he recognized two of his competitors, one a seven-time world champion, the other a two-time veteran, is a testament to his respect of experience and flexibility.

Why Hamilton Still Is a Person to Be Respected.

Some people may be surprised by the fact that Verstappen included Hamilton, as they had a strong rivalry in the 2021 season. Nevertheless, Verstappen commended the consistency of Hamilton. “He knows how to win and how to manage pressure,” Verstappen explained. To most fans, this acknowledgement is like a far-between olive branch by a driver who once had a feud with Hamilton on and off the track. Verstappen acknowledged that Hamilton remains a giant in the paddock by putting him among the best.

Alonso’s Enduring Legacy

It was also important that Verstappen praised Alonso. The Spaniard is 43 years old and still impresses with his aggressive driving and the possibility of getting the maximum out of the Aston Martin. Verstappen noted, “Fernando has the hunger of someone half his age. He doesn’t give up, and that’s what makes him dangerous.” This admiration shows the special relationship between two drivers who consider racing instincts as the most important thing in the world. The fact that Alonso is still relevant decades into his career is obviously something that Verstappen can relate to.

What His Choices Reveal

The decisions made by Verstappen shed some light on what he appreciates in competitors. He failed to mention younger stars such as Lando Norris, Charles Leclerc, or George Russell, even though they are increasingly gaining their reputation. Rather, he concentrated on established heroes who are skilled and mentally tough. This implies that Verstappen views real greatness not only in sheer speed but also in the fact that he can perform under pressure year after year.

Reactions Across the Grid

The paddock was quick to react to the picks of Verstappen. Hamilton, when asked, said, “It’s nice to hear, but I don’t race for validation.” Alonso took a more playful tone, smiling as he commented, “Maybe Max is finally admitting I keep him awake at night.” Younger drivers might feel neglected, however. Leclerc remarked, “Everyone has their opinion. I know what I can do on track.” Norris added that while respect is important, “the stopwatch is the only real judge.”

Fans Divided Over the List

Social media has been fast in sharing opinions by fans. There were those who were delighted that Verstappen finally admitted that Hamilton was great, particularly following their acrimonious battle over the title. He was criticized by others who said he is not taking into consideration the current form because Norris and Leclerc have been performing exemplarily this season. The inclusion of Alonso was celebrated by many, and most fans were happy with the fact that his longevity was acknowledged. But there is still controversy on whether Verstappen intentionally omitted younger competitors to avoid giving them momentum.

A Peek into the Mind of Verstappen.

It is also interesting when Verstappen made his comments. He established himself with legends by acknowledging Hamilton and Alonso and not future stars. This supports his perception of himself as a member of the elite history of the sport. His exclusion of the present-day rising stars may also indicate his belief that they are not yet a real threat. The greatest threats in the world of Verstappen are the most established ones.

How It Shapes the Narrative

Formula 1 is built on competitions, and the remarks of Verstappen will only contribute to more plots. Any fight with Hamilton or Alonso will now have an additional interest, as the fans will view it through the prism of respect and recognition. In the meantime, young drivers can get the additional incentive to show Verstappen wrong. His comments have spiced up an already dramatic and unpredictable season, if anything.

Conclusion: Respect From a Champion.

The fact that Max Verstappen has chosen Hamilton and Alonso as the two best drivers on the current grid speaks volumes. It reveals a seldom-seen humble side, recognizing competitors who influenced the sport before and with him. It also brings out the attributes he cherishes the most, which include resilience, adaptability, and an insatiable desire to win. His words have sparked off arguments of greatness in Formula 1, whether the fans agree with him or not. Ultimately, the admiration that Verstappen has shown towards his toughest competitors could enhance his own legacy as one of the greatest champions of the sport.