The Mexican Grand Prix delivered another explosive chapter in the long-standing rivalry between Fernando Alonso and Lewis Hamilton, with the Spanish driver delivering a scathing assessment of his former teammate's driving standards.
Tensions boil over in Mexico City
During Sunday's dramatic race at the Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez, the two world champions found themselves wheel-to-wheel in a heated battle that left Aston Martin's Alonso fuming. The incident occurred as Hamilton attempted an ambitious overtaking manoeuvre that Alonso deemed dangerously optimistic.
'Some drivers only learn when they're 38 years old,' Alonso fired in a post-race interview that's set to send shockwaves through the Formula 1 paddock. The pointed comment appears directly aimed at Hamilton's racecraft and decision-making during their intense on-track duel.
History repeats itself
This isn't the first time these two multiple world champions have clashed. Their rivalry stretches back to their tumultuous season as McLaren teammates in 2007, where their fierce competition ultimately cost both drivers the championship title.
Alonso's frustration stems from what he perceives as a pattern of aggressive behaviour from the Mercedes driver. 'We had a lot of contact between us during our careers,' Alonso noted, highlighting their extensive history of on-track incidents.
Fans divided over racing incident
The dramatic exchange has sparked fierce debate among Formula 1 enthusiasts worldwide. Social media platforms are buzzing with analysis of the incident, with supporters of both drivers passionately defending their favourite's actions.
Some argue Hamilton's move was typical of his never-give-up racing style, while others side with Alonso's view that the attempt was overly optimistic and compromised both cars' races.
What this means for the championship
While neither driver secured podium positions in Mexico, the incident could have significant implications for team dynamics and future on-track encounters. As the season approaches its climax, tensions between these two champions appear higher than ever.
The Formula 1 circus now moves to Brazil, where all eyes will be watching to see if this latest flashpoint adds another layer of intensity to one of the sport's most storied modern rivalries.
