F1 is set to return to the classic streets of Monaco this weekend, and the Lewis Hamilton – Max Verstappen rivalry show is just around the corner. Predictions are pouring in from across the F1 community ahead of the Monaco Grand Prix, and Sir Jackie Stewart has joined the group with his own expectations for the race.
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The former British racing driver said that neither Verstappen nor Mercedes team-mate Valtteri Bottas would be a match for an experienced and almost “older” Hamilton.
In addition, he claimed that the seven-time world champion is certainly number 1 for Mercedes AMG, with Bottas hiding in the dark after a series of rather poor performances.
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What did the former F1 driver say?
During a podcast, Stewart reckoned Britain’s Hamilton is in the shape of his life right now and is clearly the number 1 driver given the facts that surround him.
“Whether it’s Lewis who, in my opinion, is without a doubt number 1 on this team. I think Bottas is very good, but not in the same class, ”said Stewart when he appeared on the“ F1 Nation ”podcast.
“I think Lewis is better than ever. And he knows Monaco very well now. Lewis had been driving for a long time. He’s really a senior on the Grand Prix line-up if you look at the facts and his career. “
Formula 1 F1 – Spanish Grand Prix – Circuit de Barcelona-Catalonia, Barcelona, Spain – Mercedes ‘Lewis Hamilton celebrates after qualifying in pole position with Mercedes’ Valtteri Bottas, who finished in third place REUTERS / Emilio Morenatti
Hamilton managed to bring out his A-Game at a crucial point in time after the impending threat from Verstappen. After three wins in the first four races, his confidence seems to be on the roof.
And the fact that he is able to get every performance out of this Mercedes makes it difficult for Red Bull to keep up with the seven-time world champion.
Mercedes a big advantage for Lewis Hamilton: Stewart
The 81-year-old admitted that Verstappen will pose a threat to Hamilton but believed his car could prevent the Dutchman from beating Hamilton to a pulp.
“I think Verstappen could be the driver who drives through Monaco quickly,” he said. “But the Mercedes Benz is still the best car on the track with a huge advantage for the driver and that is its strength.”
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Formula 1 F1 – Spanish Grand Prix – Circuit de Barcelona-Catalonia, Barcelona, Spain – May 9, 2021 Mercedes’ Lewis Hamilton with Red Bulls Max Verstappen after winning the racing pool via REUTERS / Emilio Morenatti
Red Bull will keep an eye on the front row for qualifying as there are no overtaking opportunities anywhere in Monaco. In addition, the start of the race is vital. And the driver who takes control of P1 at the end of Turn 1 could very well win the race.
So who will take this juicy lead at the start of this race? Will it be Hamilton or Verstappen, or will Sergio Perez add a surprising element to this fight? Only time can tell.
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