It is known amongst the F1 fans that Lewis Hamilton and Sebastian Vettel were part of one of the greatest rivalries of the 21 century. While the former always came out as the best, the German wasn’t too far off either, keeping his Ferrari right on Hamilton’s tail.

Although the on-track battles were a treat to watch, the 7-time world champion opened up that it took a toll on both the drivers.

Furthermore, the fact that both were racing for different teams, who coincidentally turned out to be rivals as well, the Briton felt that the pressure was much more immense.

What did Lewis Hamilton say?

During the press conference in Imola ahead of the race weekend, Hamilton revealed how hard it was to race against Vettel during the latter’s phase with Ferrari.

“I think it is just knowing how hard it is to be where we are today, knowing that I was racing against an incredible driver, and not only that but a great man in Seb,” he said. “He’s a four-time world champion.

Trending

Liam Lawson’s Surprise Contract Clause Threatens Daniel Ricciardo’s RB Seat

April 24, 2024 11:15 AM EDT

F1 Rumor: Adrian Newey to Join Ferrari, Leaving Red Bull Amid Christian Horner-Helmut Marko Fiasco

April 25, 2024 05:55 PM EDT

What Is Azzurro La Plata and Azzurro Dino? Significance of Ferrari’s Historic Change to a Blue Livery for Miami GP

April 24, 2024 04:52 PM EDT

“[Charles] Leclerc Doesn’t Care About Ferrari”: F1 Insider’s Brutal Blow to Fred Vasseur & Co. Has Racing Community Lashing Out

April 24, 2024 05:00 PM EDT

F1 Rumor: Christian Horner and Wife Geri to Publicly Reveal All Details on Leaked Chat Scandal

April 22, 2024 04:10 PM EDT

Get instantly notified of the hottest F1 stories via Google! Click on Follow Us and Tap the Blue Star.

Follow Us

“And we were racing against another team. He was at Ferrari, who were very strong at that time. So, it took a lot out of both of us in that period of time, to remain focused, to deliver weekend in weekend out.”

Although Vettel’s period with Ferrari dates back to 2015, the German started showing his true pace from the 2017 season. By the end of that season, just 46 points separated Vettel from Hamilton.

And it was yet again a great start to the 2018 season, with Vettel winning the initial 2 races. But a late comeback from Hamilton meant that Vettel couldn’t finish off what he had started.

It brought us closer: Hamilton

The 7-time world champion felt that the intense rivalry brought himself and Vettel much closer than expected.

“And whilst it was a difficult period for us, it brought us closer as well. Because the respect that we have between us is huge,” he said.

While it has been a consistent phase for Hamilton, with race wins and ultimately the championship wins, it hasn’t been a journey as easy for Vettel. After being left out by his dream team, Ferrari, the German found a home in Aston Martin but is yet to get a grip with the tricky car.

Hence, will fortunes change in time for Vettel with his new team? Can Aston Martin ultimately provide the 4-time world champion with a fast-enough car to rekindle the rivalry between their trusted driver and Hamilton?