Massa doubts Hamilton's chances for an eighth F1 world title
Mar.28 - Charles Leclerc currently stands out as the only top Formula 1 driver on back-to-back world champion Max Verstappen's level.
That is the view of former Ferrari driver Felipe Massa, who thinks even seven time world champion Lewis Hamilton's best days are now behind him.
"I don't think he can win an eighth," the 41-year-old Brazilian told Bild newspaper. "At least not with this car.
"He can drive as well as he wants but his car is too slow."
Also struggling to deal with Red Bull's dominance at present is Ferrari, but the 2023 car's qualifying pace is good - with the main problem being tyre wear in the race.
"Like Max and Lewis, Charles is an exceptional driver," Massa said. "He is currently the biggest title challenger for Red Bull.
Felipe Massa
"Red Bull's second driver, Sergio Pérez, is too inconsistent. Just like Carlos Sainz at Ferrari. But George Russell could be a title contender for years to come."
Indeed, Russell finished ahead of his older British countryman Hamilton in his first year at Mercedes in 2022, and once again appears to have a pace edge this season.
"I trust him to do well," Massa said.
"Don't forget that last year, in his first season at Mercedes, he outperformed Lewis in the world championship. An incredible achievement," said the winner of 11 career grands prix.
"Before that in Lewis' career, only Nico Rosberg had done something similar in 2016. George is a top driver," added Massa.
✅ Check out more posts with related topics:
No one is presently a title challenger for Max under normal circumstances, but Nando is the closest threat to RB in race trim.
Lewis can get a record-breaking 8th championship win if Mercedes returns to winning ways sooner than later, which is somewhat doubtful within the remaining aero & PU cycle.
Hamilton is now just another moaning has been his best days are past stfu&d or retire and go take selfies enough is enough
Charles Leclerc has been overshadowed by Carlos Sainz in the first three rounds so far. I really don't see Leclerc as being any opposition for Verstappen this season, unless Ferrari can make big improvements and Sainz loses his way!
Hamilton's days of domination are behind him now, and George is showing him the way! This weekend in Melbourne is a good indicator. The only thing that stopped George from winning the AGP was car failure.
Ermmm, Correct in every way, How disappointed did King G look, now that's Passion, we need a bit more Carlos Sainz Snr helmet throwing in F1 i say . Im surprised Fernando couldn't pass the Merc though , but not to worry, the Grand master is on fire
✅ Checkout the latest 50 F1 Fans comments.