Lewis Hamilton and Max Verstappen battle.
Lewis Hamilton feels the “hostility” from Max Verstappen towards him will always be there after Verstappen pointed the finger firmly at Hamilton for their Hungarian GP shunt.
After being unable to pass Hamilton in their first intense battle over the final podium spot in Hungary, Verstappen returned for part two in the final stint, though this time it would end in contact which sent Verstappen airborne.
Lewis Hamilton claims Max Verstappen ‘hostility’ will never change
As Verstappen attempted to overtake Hamilton on Turn 1, he suffered a mishap by locking up both front wheels. Consequently, his Red Bull car collided with the front-right tire of Hamilton’s Mercedes as the British driver was turning into the corner. The impact was so forceful that it caused Verstappen’s vehicle to lift off the ground.
Incredibly, both drivers carried on despite the incident. Hamilton managed to secure a podium finish, while Verstappen settled for fifth place. Verstappen squarely pointed the finger at Hamilton, claiming that he deliberately caused the collision by cutting across his path. However, after conducting an investigation, the stewards determined that no additional measures were necessary.
Hamilton’s conclusion was that this incident was simply a racing incident, although he was not surprised by Verstappen’s “hostility”.
In the post-Hungarian GP press conference, Hamilton brought up the Verstappen incident and mentioned, “To the best of my recollection, we encountered a slower car and as I reached the braking area, Max suddenly appeared to overtake the vehicle trailing behind me. Consequently, I shifted my position to protect my position.”
“I made sure there was ample space on the inside, but Max unexpectedly halted and took a divergent path from mine. While I was heading towards the corner, he suddenly sped across it.”
“It seemed like a mere racing incident, where mistakes can easily occur. Therefore, I believe there is no need for any animosity. However, it is understandable that he will always harbor some hostility towards me.”
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Hamilton achieved his 200th career podium in Hungary, but he didn’t attach much significance to this milestone. However, he was thrilled to share the podium with Oscar Piastri, who won his first Grand Prix, and Lando Norris from his former team, McLaren.
When asked about the significance of his 200th podium statistic, Hamilton responded that the number itself doesn’t hold any importance.
“I can’t help but reflect on these two and how young they are. They were still in diapers when I began, so…”
To be honest, it simply reminds me of the entire journey and the amazing individuals I’ve been fortunate to collaborate with.
When I was 13, McLaren signed me and ever since then, I have held a deep affection for that team. We have shared an incredible journey together, from winning my first World Championship to experiencing their challenging period. Therefore, witnessing their return to success fills me with immense joy and satisfaction. McLaren is like my old family, and I feel incredibly thankful to be standing here alongside them.
“I never expected to achieve 200 podiums today in such a challenging race. Considering I have participated in around 340 races, it’s not a bad score. However, I owe this accomplishment to the incredible individuals I have had the privilege of working with in both of these teams.”
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