Lewis Hamilton vs. Max Verstappen in 2021 was a battle for the ages. The rivalry between the two has proved to be one of the most intriguing storylines in Formula 1. The intensity and drama behind every race, combined with the unforgiving nature of the sport, made the fans stay on the edge of their seats every time the two battled each other on the track.

While they did not see eye to eye during the season, the two shared a mutual respect. And back in 2017, when Hamilton’s dominance came to prominence, he singled out Verstappen as a future champion. The boy from the Netherlands rose to the occasion in 2016 with a stunning victory on his debut with Red Bull.

Speaking about his potential, Hamilton said, “You’ve got a potential world champion within Max and he’s only going to get stronger with age. He has a lot of raw talent and has got a long way to go but these wins, these experiences, are only adding to his great potential. I’m looking forward to battling with that.”

Max Verstappen Discloses His True Relationship With Lewis Hamilton Amidst Bizarre Hate Theories

At that time, Verstappen had just beaten Hamilton to secure the Malaysian GP. It provided a hint of things to come in the future. Well, now he has 26 wins to his name and will be the most capped Red Bull driver after the 2022 French Grand Prix.

Verstappen, much like Hamilton, is on the path of building a legacy in the sport. He is currently just 24 and is gunning for his second world championship honor.

Max Verstappen reveals his relationship with Lewis Hamilton

Last season’s intense competition took a toll on the drivers and the teams as well. Verstappen and Hamilton had their fair share of collisions and moments on the track multiple times. The relationship between the protagonists of 2021 also took a tumble.

After the dust has settled, Verstappen, however, praised Hamilton. Following his maiden title, he said, “You look each other in the eye. You don’t say a lot, but you do relate a lot and you really appreciate the fight. Sometimes we did hate each other, but that’s fine. That’s the competitive spirit of both of us. He is an incredible driver.”

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WATCH THIS STORY: Lewis Hamilton dismisses beef with Max Verstappen

This season, meanwhile, has been a different story. Red Bull and Ferrari have been the dominant force, while Mercedes has taken a step back. The Dutchman, however, is in contention and a favorite to win the championship again.

He also recently revealed that the battle last season was between the teams and not the drivers themselves. The two share a desire to win and we hope to see their battle on the track continues in 2023.