The rivalry between Lewis Hamilton and Max Verstappen is steadily gathering steam this season, with 14 points separating the two on the driver’s standings. Hence, considering the early indications of a title fight, fans are aching to witness a different driver lift the 2021 championship trophy, having come across Hamilton’s years of dominance.

However, former F1 CEO, Bernie Ecclestone, has a different opinion on the ongoing battle between the star drivers of Mercedes and Red Bull.

The 90-year-old felt that any amount of fight from the flying Dutchman might not be enough to stop Hamilton from clinching his eighth title.

What did Ecclestone say?

As reported by Blick, Ecclestone reckoned that Hamilton is in the form of his life, and Verstappen’s push this season could be the reason. “Now this sport has two pilots at eye level again, as it did with Senna and Prost,” he said.

“But unfortunately I have to take away the hopes for the title for 2021 from the supporters of this great fighter from Holland. Hamilton is currently driving better than ever. Thanks also to Verstappen.”

Over the first couple of race weekends, Verstappen very much looked like the better driver of the two. However, since the weekend in Portugal, Hamilton just seems unstoppable.

No amount of push from the Dutchman seems to be affecting his title rival. Hence, as things stand, Verstappen might need something special to inch closer to Hamilton.

Lewis Hamilton is clever: Ecclestone

The former F1 CEO opened up about the positive aspects that have been keeping Hamilton ahead of his rivals.

“Lewis is clear, flawless, calm, and clever,” he said. “He doesn’t get involved in hot duels and always respectfully gives the opponent the space they need to survive.”

Verstappen had to take his aggression up a notch during race starts in Imola and Barcelona, taking the racing line and forcing Hamilton off the track. On both occasions, the Briton opted not to fight hard and gave up his lead. While it paid off in Italy for Verstappen, it wasn’t the story same in Spain.

Hamilton and Mercedes worked out a smart strategy to regain the place from Verstappen rather easily to secure his third victory of the season. Hence, considering Mercedes’ fightback in the past couple of races, will Ecclestone’s prediction end up being true? Only time will tell.

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