F1 News: Bernie Ecclestone Fires Blow To Lewis Hamilton - "Shouldn't Have Lost So Dramatically"
Former Formula 1 CEO Bernie Ecclestone has openly criticised Lewis Hamilton and Mercedes for their performance last season while praising Max Verstappen and Red Bull's dominance.
Key Takeaways:
- Max Verstappen's Dominance: Ecclestone praised Max Verstappen for his extraordinary performance in the previous F1 season, winning 19 out of 21 races. He believes Verstappen could win in less competitive cars like Ferrari or Mercedes, crediting Red Bull for developing the best team and car.
- Criticism of Mercedes and Hamilton: Ecclestone highlighted Mercedes' struggle, marking their first winless season since 2011. He specifically pointed out Lewis Hamilton's failure and George Russell's underperformance, suggesting that their losses were too dramatic.
- Praise for Oscar Piastri: Among other drivers, Ecclestone praised McLaren rookie Oscar Piastri, impressed by his performance at just 22 years old. He anticipates Piastri will become a champion in the future.
Red Bull Press Image
The former CEO of Formula 1 Bernie Ecclestone has expressed immense admiration for Max Verstappen's skill and success, following a season where the Dutch driver secured 19 victories out of 21 races. This performance not only marked a record-breaking season for Verstappen but also for his team, Red Bull. Ecclestone's confidence in Verstappen is such that he believes the driver could achieve victories even in less competitive cars, such as those from Ferrari or Mercedes. He lauded Red Bull's strategic approach, stating to Bild:
"They have patiently endured Mercedes dominance, replacing each weak link one by one, developing the best team, the best design, the best car and the best driver.
"Christian Horner has done an excellent job. Max is currently the benchmark in every field.
“You could also put him in a McLaren, and probably a Ferrari or a Mercedes, and he would still win."
Mercedes F1
However, Ecclestone's comments were not all praises. He was notably critical of Mercedes and its drivers, particularly Lewis Hamilton. Mercedes experienced a winless season for the first time since 2011, a stark contrast to their previous dominance. Ecclestone highlighted this downfall, remarking:
“[Lewis] Hamilton failed a bit and [George] Russell wasn't as good as he thought he was either. Still, they shouldn't have lost so dramatically."
Ecclestone also had words of praise for another driver, Oscar Piastri from McLaren. The Australian rookie has shown promise in his debut season, leading Ecclestone to predict a bright future for him:
“Young Australian Oscar Piastri impresses me the most, at 22 years old. He will surely be a champion.”