Lewis Hamilton has openly expressed his support for Max Verstappen’s possible move to Mercedes, stating he would have no “problem” with his former rival joining the team. Hamilton made these remarks amid growing speculation surrounding Verstappen’s future in Formula 1, particularly with a possible switch planned for the 2026 season.
The seven-time world champion shared his positive outlook despite their intense rivalry, highlighting that such a transition would be understandable given the circumstances. The discussion comes after Mercedes’ team principal, Toto Wolff, made attempts to sign Verstappen following Hamilton’s announced departure from Mercedes to Ferrari for the 2024 season.
Background of Wolff’s Pursuit and Verstappen’s Success
Toto Wolff has intermittently pursued Verstappen since February 2024, after Hamilton’s move to Ferrari was confirmed. While Wolff was unsuccessful in securing Verstappen for 2025, recent developments hint that Mercedes is still interested in bringing the Dutchman on board starting in 2026. Verstappen is the reigning world champion, having claimed the last four drivers‘ titles in the sport.
The tension between Hamilton and Verstappen intensified during the 2021 season when Verstappen won the title under controversial circumstances in Abu Dhabi. The contentious decisions at the season’s finale led Hamilton to question his future in racing.
Hamilton’s Perspective on Verstappen’s Career and Team Choices
Asked about Verstappen joining Mercedes at the British Grand Prix, Hamilton remarked:
Max didn’t do anything. He did what he needed to do in terms of winning, so I don’t think it would be a problem.
—Lewis Hamilton
Hamilton also expressed his willingness to recommend Mercedes as a team to Verstappen, while acknowledging Red Bull’s capabilities. Reflecting on his earlier views, Hamilton admitted to once underestimating Red Bull, which he now regards as a formidable team.
He said,
“He’s coming from a great team… I think I was just so diehard Mercedes at the time… But the truth is, Red Bull have been an incredible team. There are so many people there who are exceptional. They’ve dominated for years.”
Regarding Mercedes, Hamilton praised the organization’s resources and team environment:
So, of course I would (recommend it). I’m interested to see what happens.
—Lewis Hamilton
Significance of Engine Performance in Verstappen’s Potential Decision
A crucial element influencing Verstappen’s possible move is the expectation that Mercedes will develop the most competitive engine under the new regulations set to debut in 2026. Red Bull, making their own engine for the first time, is rumored to be trailing Mercedes in development progress.
Hamilton noted that the strength of Mercedes’ power unit will play a major role in Verstappen’s decision, stating:
Mercedes will build an amazing engine next year because that’s what they are particularly strong at building. That would be the biggest part for sure.
—Lewis Hamilton
On whether the idea of Verstappen driving a Mercedes car in 2026 would be intimidating, Hamilton said:
Max in any car is a strong opponent. I don’t really think too much about it.
—Lewis Hamilton
Looking Ahead: F1’s Upcoming Events and Season Break
The Formula 1 season is currently on a short break before resuming at the Belgian Grand Prix on July 25‑27, where the Sprint format will return. The continued rivalry and potential team changes, including Verstappen’s possible Mercedes move, remain key storylines as the sport progresses into the next stages of 2024 and beyond.
Hamilton’s composed attitude toward Verstappen’s potential switch signals a new chapter in Formula 1, where former competitors may soon become teammates, shifting the landscape of racing rivalries in the coming seasons.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Who is Max Verstappen’s baby daughter?
A. Max Verstappen is now a father! The 27-year-old Formula One driver and his girlfriend, Kelly Piquet, have welcomed their first child, a daughter named Lily. They shared this exciting update together on Instagram.
Q. Is Penelope not Max Verstappen’s daughter?
A. Kelly Piquet, his partner, is the daughter of ex-world champion Nelson Piquet. She has a daughter named Penelope with former F1 driver Daniil Kvyat from a past relationship. Verstappen has developed a strong bond with Penelope. When asked if being a parent could affect his racing, he referred to their relationship as an example.
Q. Who is Max Verstappen’s girlfriend’s baby daddy?
A. Before she started dating Verstappen, she was romantically linked to another F1 driver, Daniil Kvyat, and they had a daughter in 2019. Piquet and Verstappen announced that their first child, Lily, was born on May 2. “Welcome to the world, sweet Lily.”
Q. Does Max Verstappen support LGBT?
A. Max expressed his respect for the LGBTQHDTV+ community but observed that each June, it feels more like a campaign than a movement. Eliza Burnett commented that Max’s words were a polite way of describing the situation.
