Former F1 driver Jenson Button believes Max Verstappen is the biggest raw talent in the history of F1. However, he singled out Lewis Hamilton as the most complete driver today.
The 2009 World Champion has raced against both Verstappen and Hamilton, and believes the Red Bull driver possesses more raw speed than anyone on the grid today.
Speaking to Sky Sports before the Spanish Grand Prix, Button said, “He’s immensely talented. For raw talent, he’s probably THE most talented (in history).”
He added, “I know a lot of people won’t agree with me on that. The most complete driver out there in terms of experience and the way they go about their racing is Lewis Hamilton. But for raw talent, I think it has to be Max. So Red Bull are not going to want to let him go.”
Verstappen has been linked with a mega move to Mercedes in 2022. Hamilton’s latest comments about signing a new deal with Mercedes by the summer break. This means Button’s view that Red Bull will want to keep hold of their most prized asset will become even more of a priority.
Damon Hill backs Hamilton
Damon Hill spoke about Verstappen’s title rival, Lewis Hamilton, calling him one of the greatest sportsmen to have ever competed. The 1996 World Champion took to Twitter to address the seven-time World Champion after his 100th pole in Formula 1.
“You do realise you are watching one of the most talented people to ever have walked the Earth, don’t you? He really is a phenomenon. Can only watch on in awe,” Hill said.
Currently, Hamilton leads Verstappen by 14 points after both achieved the best-ever starts to an F1 season in their careers. It will be amazing to see the touted battle between both drivers with the rest of the season to come.
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From this generation, yes, he’s probably right. From all times, I’m not so sure. You cannot discount the likes of Fangio, Clark, Stewart, Senna… What these people achieved on sometimes lesser machinery is simply outstanding.