Lewis Hamilton has shared his opinion on the ongoing debate between Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi, revealing that he is a big admirer of one of these iconic footballers. The Formula 1 legend acknowledged both players’ greatness but ultimately sided with Messi in the discussion over who is the greatest of all time.
As the Formula 1 season progresses, attention is shifting towards the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, scheduled to run from September 19th to 21st in Baku, marking the 17th round of the championship. McLaren arrives at the event with a strong chance of securing consecutive constructors’ titles, having amassed a substantial 337-point lead over second-placed Ferrari. Drivers Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris have contributed 617 points in total this season, reinforcing McLaren’s dominant position.
Meanwhile, Hamilton, now racing for Ferrari, has not claimed victory in Azerbaijan since 2018. Ferrari team principal Fred Vasseur admitted that the British driver has faced challenges adapting following his move from Mercedes, highlighting the complexity of such a transition after many years with previous teams.
Vasseur explained,
“I don’t know if we underestimated the importance of the change. Probably, because he spent 10 years at McLaren, then 12 with Mercedes, but it was a kind of continuity – two teams based in the UK with the same engine, same environment.”
[Joining Ferrari] is a complete change for him, in his life, the culture of the team and everything. To do it in three test days in the winter period is quite difficult – and I think also the expectation was huge.
Fred Vasseur, Ferrari team principal
Despite a mixed season so far, Hamilton remains one of the greatest Formula 1 drivers ever, having earned a joint-record seven World Drivers’ Championships. Off the track, the 40-year-old is known for his passion for football and has supported Arsenal since childhood.
On the debate between Ronaldo and Messi, Hamilton stated,
Messi or Ronaldo? Messi! They are both amazing to be honest, but I’m a big Messi fan in the end.
Lewis Hamilton, Formula 1 driver
Messi’s Strong Performance Continues for Argentina
Lionel Messi, now 38 years old, continues to perform at an elite level despite no longer playing club football in Europe. In a recent international break, he showcased his enduring talent by scoring two goals against Venezuela in his final home match for Argentina.
Messi’s career achievements are extraordinary, including 672 goals and 303 assists in 778 appearances for Barcelona. He has won eight Ballon d’Or awards and led Argentina to a World Cup victory in 2022. These accomplishments support Hamilton’s view of Messi as the greatest player in football history.
Looking ahead, the 2026 World Cup, scheduled to take place across North America from June to July, may offer a definitive answer to the GOAT debate. Argentina has already qualified for this tournament, giving Messi the chance to potentially secure a second World Cup and further cement his legacy.
