Celebrity Formula 1 enthusiast Jeremy Clarkson has stirred the pot by labeling Lewis Hamilton as “past his prime” after a challenging performance at the Brazilian Grand Prix. The outgoing Mercedes driver faced difficulties on the track, struggling to secure a competitive position. Meanwhile, Clarkson heaped praise on Max Verstappen, Hamilton’s 2021 title rival, suggesting the Red Bull ace might be the “greatest driver we’ve ever seen.”
Clarkson’s Harsh Take on Hamilton’s Future
In his recent column for The Sun, Clarkson critiqued Hamilton’s current form, pointing out that the British driver failed to qualify in the top tier while his Mercedes teammate George Russell started near the front row. Clarkson bluntly asserted, “Hamilton is now ‘too old’ to perform at his peak,” adding that Verstappen’s recent performance might cement him as one of F1’s all-time greats. This verdict comes as Hamilton, set to turn 40 soon, prepares for a new chapter with Ferrari in 2025.
Verstappen’s Brazilian Grand Prix Triumph
In Brazil, Verstappen delivered an extraordinary performance, climbing from 17th place on the grid to take the win, underscoring his dominance this season. With only three races left – in Las Vegas, Qatar, and Abu Dhabi – Verstappen holds a 62-point lead over McLaren’s Lando Norris, virtually locking in his fourth consecutive World Championship. If successful, Verstappen will join Sebastian Vettel as one of the only drivers to achieve four successive championships from the start of their career.
Hamilton Reflects on a Difficult Season
Hamilton, the most decorated driver in F1 history, openly expressed his disappointment with the 2024 season. Despite early victories at Silverstone and Spa, he admitted that recent races have been “devastating.” “The car has been the worst of it this weekend,” Hamilton said post-race in Brazil, adding, “It’s definitely not acceptable, and we have to take accountability.” The British driver also stated he is no longer focused on outpacing Russell or securing a high championship standing, instead aiming to “keep the car out of the wall.”
A Challenging Transition Ahead
The 2025 season will mark a new chapter for Hamilton with Ferrari. However, Clarkson’s remarks highlight the mounting pressures on Hamilton to maintain his competitive edge as age catches up. His struggles in 2024 could indicate that the racing legend’s best days might indeed be behind him, while Verstappen’s relentless pace reinforces his rise as the potential heir to Hamilton’s throne.
As the F1 season draws to a close, Hamilton’s journey forward seems more uncertain than ever, while Verstappen continues to secure his legacy. With Clarkson’s stinging critique echoing through the paddocks, fans are left to wonder if Hamilton’s Ferrari venture can reignite his career or if he’s truly racing towards retirement.
