Damon Hill Compares Lewis Hamilton's Potential Eighth Title to Tig

Damon Hill Compares Lewis Hamilton’s Potential Eighth Title to Tiger Woods’ 2019 Comeback

Lewis Hamilton, regarded as the most successful Formula 1 driver in history, has had his career and potential retirement discussed by former F1 world champion Damon Hill. Hill, reflecting on Hamilton’s future, compared the Briton’s potential eighth title triumph to some of the most remarkable comebacks in sporting history, including Tiger Woods’ 2019 Masters win and Niki Lauda’s return after a life-threatening crash.

As the holder of the all-time records for race wins, pole positions, and podium finishes, Hamilton has cemented his legacy in motorsport. He also shares the record for the most world championships (seven) with Michael Schumacher. However, now at 40 years old, speculation has grown over whether he can still reach his peak performance before retiring from F1.

Hamilton’s Future in F1

Despite the doubts surrounding his longevity in the sport, Hamilton is preparing for his 19th season in Formula 1 in 2025. This year marks a significant change for him as he makes the highly anticipated switch from Mercedes to Ferrari. The Briton has expressed enthusiasm for the move, describing it as a reinvigorating experience and a new chapter in his illustrious career.

During pre-season testing in Bahrain, Ferrari showed promising pace, fueling hopes that Hamilton could be a title contender in his debut season with the Scuderia. He admitted that he felt more optimistic about his chances than he had in a long time. This has led to discussions about whether Hamilton could achieve an unprecedented eighth championship, which would set him apart from Schumacher and further solidify his status as the greatest F1 driver of all time.

Damon Hill’s Verdict on Hamilton’s Career and Potential Eighth Title

Damon Hill, the 1996 F1 world champion, believes that Hamilton has already proven everything he needs to in the sport. However, Hill acknowledged that if Hamilton were to win another title with Ferrari, it would go down as one of the greatest achievements in sporting history.

Speaking to The Telegraph, Hill described Hamilton’s current stage as “the last chapter” of his career. While he believes the veteran driver has nothing left to prove, the idea of Hamilton winning an eighth world championship in a Ferrari would be an extraordinary story—one that transcends motorsport.

Hill compared such a feat to legendary sporting moments, such as Tiger Woods’ 2019 Masters victory, which came after years of injuries and personal struggles, or Niki Lauda’s 1977 title win following his near-fatal crash the year before. He suggested that, while it may seem improbable, it is not entirely out of the question.

“We’re witnessing the last chapter,” Hill stated. “And he really doesn’t have anything else to prove. But let’s say there’s a sliver of a chance he is winning an eighth world title in a Ferrari… that would be like one of those stories that sport every now and then throws up.

“Tiger Woods winning that Masters in 2019 on one leg, or Niki Lauda returning from near death. It would be right up there. Can it happen? I don’t think it’s totally impossible.”

Conclusion

Hamilton’s move to Ferrari has added an exciting twist to the final phase of his career. While his age and the competitiveness of the grid pose challenges, his drive and motivation remain strong. If he does manage to secure an eighth championship, it would not only be a crowning achievement in his own career but also one of the most unforgettable moments in sporting history.