Former racing driver and NASCAR legend Danica Patrick has stirred up a storm of controversy following her comments about Lewis Hamilton and Max Verstappen in relation to Ferrari’s driver selection. Speaking on a recent podcast, Patrick suggested that while Ferrari’s decision to bring Hamilton on board was a “masterstroke,” the team would ultimately have preferred to sign Max Verstappen instead.
“I think Ferrari’s decision to take him (Lewis) was a masterstroke, but of course, they would have preferred Max,” Patrick stated. “Ferrari can only become World Champions with Max; they won’t succeed with Hamilton. He is the second choice, but better second than third.”
Her comments have divided fans and pundits alike. On one hand, some fans agree with Patrick’s analysis, asserting that Verstappen’s dominance in Formula 1 over recent years makes him the more likely driver to secure a World Championship for Ferrari. Verstappen has consistently outperformed other drivers, including Hamilton, in recent seasons, clinching multiple titles with Red Bull Racing.
On the other hand, many are shocked by Patrick’s remarks, particularly the dismissal of Hamilton’s capabilities. The seven-time World Champion has proven himself to be one of the greatest drivers in F1 history, securing multiple titles with Mercedes and showing his ability to win races across different eras of Formula 1.
Patrick’s choice of words has drawn attention to the ongoing debate within the F1 community about whether Ferrari should have looked to Verstappen as their future star driver, especially after the departure of Sebastian Vettel. While Hamilton remains a top contender in the sport, some argue that Ferrari’s future could lie with a younger, more dynamic driver like Verstappen.
As the conversation unfolds, many are left wondering whether Ferrari’s decision-making process will truly affect their chances of securing a World Championship. Ferrari’s team principal, Mattia Binotto, has yet to weigh in on the controversy sparked by Patrick’s statements, but this debate seems far from over.
In the meantime, Patrick’s comments continue to fuel discussions about the future of F1, and how team strategies and driver choices will shape the sport for years to come.
