Lewis Hamilton says Norris can win Formula One title in .....

Lewis Hamilton says Norris can win Formula One title in …..read more

Lewis Hamilton has expressed confidence that Lando Norris could potentially overtake Max Verstappen in the race for the Formula One title this season. Ahead of the Sao Paulo Grand Prix, the seven-time world champion acknowledged the thrilling competition that has developed this year, contrasting it with the dominance Verstappen has exhibited in recent seasons.

Hamilton remarked on the excitement that Norris’s challenge brings to the championship, noting that it adds a layer of drama for fans. Currently, Verstappen holds a 47-point lead over Norris with four races remaining, but Hamilton believes that the performance of the McLaren team makes it possible for Norris to close the gap. “I think he needs about 11 points more in each race, which is definitely achievable given their recent performances,” Hamilton stated.

During the conversation, Hamilton touched upon Verstappen’s aggressive driving style, which has led to penalties in recent races, specifically mentioning a pair of 10-second penalties he received during the Mexican Grand Prix. While Hamilton refrained from diving into the controversy surrounding Verstappen’s tactics, he acknowledged that the current dynamic in the sport is exhilarating. He referenced his own experiences with Verstappen, particularly during their intense battles in 2021.

“The last few years have not been as exciting, with Max leading the way,” Hamilton said. “But now we see that the title can go down to the wire, and that’s great for the fans.” He also noted that the rules in Formula One remain unchanged from those in 2021, which continues to influence drivers’ behavior on the track.

When asked about potential changes to the rules to prevent aggressive driving tactics that force competitors off the track, Hamilton proposed reverting to gravel traps instead of the more forgiving run-off areas that many circuits have adopted. He believes that if drivers faced the consequences of being on gravel or grass, they would be less likely to push the limits during overtaking maneuvers. “The runoff areas don’t help,” he explained. “Drivers take advantage of them, which leads to the kind of racing we see.”

Hamilton’s remarks reflect a broader concern within the sport about maintaining competitive integrity and ensuring fair racing. He emphasized the importance of balancing aggressive driving with safety and respect for other competitors. “Everyone has their opinions on what’s happening, but ultimately, it’s up to the drivers to navigate their battles,” he added.

In addition to his reflections on the title race, Hamilton shared his excitement about driving Ayrton Senna’s iconic 1990 championship-winning McLaren MP4/5 during a demonstration event on November 2. This event commemorates the 30th anniversary of Senna’s tragic death at the 1994 San Marino Grand Prix. Hamilton revealed that the demonstration was meant to be a secret, but word of it got out. “It’s impossible to keep things quiet,” he noted, indicating the strong interest surrounding Senna’s legacy.

Hamilton, who was named an honorary Brazilian in 2022, expressed his deep appreciation for the culture and history of Brazil, particularly in relation to Senna. “Every opportunity I get to spend time here, I learn more about the culture and the people,” he said. “You just vibe off that for the whole weekend.” His connection to Senna and the Brazilian people enhances his experience during the race weekend, making it particularly special for him.

As the season nears its climax, the tension between Verstappen and Norris is palpable, with fans eagerly anticipating how the championship will unfold. Hamilton’s insights not only highlight his respect for both drivers but also his understanding of the nuances of racing dynamics. With the Sao Paulo Grand Prix approaching, the stage is set for what could be a pivotal moment in the championship race, drawing attention from across the motorsport world.