'Greatest Formula 1 Driver' Hamilton Currently 'Not At His Best' Says Coutlhard

Sunday, 08 December 2024 at 11:58

Former F1 driver David Coulthard shared his opinion on Lewis Hamilton's form going into the last Grand Prix of the season in Abu Dhabi.

Multiple groups of fans will argue over who is the best driver in the history of F1 and whether there actually is one, but for former F1 driver David Coulthard, it's clear.

The 13-time Grand Prix winner suggests that from the statistical point of view, Lewis Hamilton is clearly the greatest. As reported by Planet F1, he said:

"Lewis is the most influential driver in the history of the sport in terms of what he's done. And anyone who denies his greatness is delusional."

"In a data driven business, the data supports him being the greatest Formula 1 driver in the history of the sport."

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While Hamilton is equal on the number of Championship titles with Michael Schumacher, the 39-year-old has more pole positions (104), fastest laps (67), podiums (202), and victories than anyone else (105).

"Not by World Championships [he shares the record of seven with Michael Schumacher], but I don't personally think winning an eighth or a ninth can make him any bigger in terms of his impact and legacy."

That being said, the former F1 driver moved on to give a verdict on the current form of the seven-time World Champion, which he doesn't think is his best.

"Lewis has looked and sounded uncomfortable this year. As controversial as it is to say – and, inevitably, some of his fans will come back at me with 'what the f**k did that Scotsman ever achieve to make that statement?!' – this is not Lewis at his best."

Lewis Hamilton has been outperformed by his teammate George Russell in 24 out of 30 qualifying sessions (including sprint qualifying) this year - the worst teammate head-to-head score in his career.

"He's never been out-qualified by a team-mate as often and as consistently. If we're being pragmatic, looking at the data, he is not at the peak of his form."

"But Lewis' legacy as a grand prix driver, as a winning machine, as a World Champion, is one you dream about for your son or daughter. He would make any parent proud."

The 2024 season was Hamilton's last with Mercedes, and the seven-time World Champion will be hoping the temporary slump in his form was down to a car that didn't suit him.

Starting in Ferrari in 2025, the Briton will be looking to achieve what no one else has managed in the history of F1 - score the eighth Drivers' Championship title.