F1 News: Lewis Hamilton Reveals Measured Take On Abu Dhabi 2021 - "Wasn't His Fault"
As the 2024 Formula 1 season continues into its second race weekend, the anticipation of how the teams perform on a different track is palpable. However, the echoes of the controversial 2021 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix still linger, with Lewis Hamilton's recent comments reigniting discussions around the contentious events that unfolded during the championship-deciding race.
Key takeaways
- Lewis Hamilton doesn't blame Max Verstappen for the controversial 2021 championship finale
- Hamilton understands why Red Bull extended Verstappen's contract, but wonders about his future plans amid rumours of him looking for an exit
- Excitement builds for Saudi Arabian GP to see if any team can challenge the pace of Verstappen's RB20
Mercedes F1
The 2021 season witnessed an intense battle for the Drivers' Championship between Hamilton and Max Verstappen. The Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, the final race of the season, was set to be the ultimate decider. However, a late safety car period and subsequent decisions by the race director sparked outrage and controversy, ultimately leading to Verstappen claiming his first World Championship title.
In a recent interview with Autosport, the Mercedes driver addressed the events of that day, offering a measured and insightful perspective.
"I wouldn't say I'm surprised, because he's a great driver," he said, referring to Verstappen's actions during the pivotal moments of the race. "I think even we spoke back then. Max in that moment, he did what he had to do, it was nothing on him, it was the sport that let us down."
Hamilton's words reflect a level of sportsmanship, recognising - as everyone should - that Verstappen's actions were within the bounds of the rules as they stood at the time. However, he also acknowledges the larger systemic issues that marred the integrity of the race's conclusion.
"And I think that wasn't his fault. Me, in his position, I would have done exactly the same thing. So there's no issues there," Hamilton added, further cementing his stance that Verstappen should not bear the brunt of the criticism for his role in the events.
Red Bull Content Pool
Looking ahead to the future, Hamilton touched upon Verstappen's recent contract extension with Red Bull, stating:
"I think if you run a team, you want to have the best driver, and you want to be the team that's got the driver that brings in the eyeballs, brings the sponsorships, and he is one of those."
While acknowledging Verstappen's talents and value to the Red Bull team, Hamilton expressed curiosity about the Dutchman's long-term plans amid rumours of him potentially leaving the team after the drama surrounding it started ahead of this season.
"So I understand it, but it wouldn't make sense, I would say, for him. But it'll be interesting to see," he said.
As the 2024 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix approaches, fans will be keen to understand how the potent RB20 performs on a street circuit with faster corners compared to the previous Bahrain track. Can they be caught by the likes of Ferrari, who showed excellent pace, albeit with reliability issues, last weekend? Or maybe another team hidden in the mid-grid cluster can bounce forward. We're excited to find out.