In a startling intervention that has sent shockwaves through the Formula 1 paddock, former chief executive Bernie Ecclestone has delivered a brutal assessment of seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton, claiming he is "not as good" as current title holder Max Verstappen.
The 93-year-old F1 mogul, who shaped the sport for decades, didn't hold back in his critique during an exclusive interview. He pinpointed Hamilton's recent struggle to adapt to the less dominant Mercedes W15 as a key weakness compared to his Dutch rival.
Verstappen's Ruthless Edge Exposed
Ecclestone elaborated on his controversial stance, highlighting Verstappen's relentless and uncompromising approach. "Max is completely dedicated to what he's doing," he stated, drawing a stark contrast to Hamilton's ventures beyond the track.
He suggested that Hamilton's focus has been diluted by his high-profile lifestyle and activism, implying that Verstappen's singular obsession with racing gives him a critical advantage. This, Ecclestone argues, is the defining difference between a great driver and a truly exceptional one.
Oscar Piastri: The Next Big Thing?
In a surprising twist, Ecclestone then turned his attention to the new generation, singling out McLaren's Oscar Piastri for immense praise. He tipped the young Australian as a future superstar of the sport, capable of challenging the established order.
"He's going to be a champion," Ecclestone proclaimed, signalling a potential seismic shift in the future F1 hierarchy. This endorsement places Piastri firmly in the spotlight as one to watch in the coming seasons.
A Blunt Message for Mercedes
The commentary didn't stop with the drivers. Ecclestone also took aim at the Mercedes team itself, suggesting their current woes are not solely down to the car's performance. His comments will add further pressure on the Brackley-based squad to rediscover their championship-winning form and provide Hamilton with machinery capable of fighting at the front.
This explosive interview from the most influential figure in F1's history is set to dominate conversations ahead of the British Grand Prix, questioning legacies and anointing the sport's next potential king.
