The 2021 Formula 1 championship changed the relationship between Max Verstappen and Lewis Hamilton forever. The fierce and nail-biting rivalry translated to multiple on-track crashes between the two. However, there was always a sense of mutual respect, despite the rivalry and media manipulation.

To prove that, comments from the past by Verstappen serve as a perfect example. Back in 2016, a young Verstappen was asked to compare himself to Lewis Hamilton and Nico Rosberg. Verstappen’s comments not only tell us in what light he sees Hamilton, but also the Dutchman’s racing mentality.

When asked to compare himself to Hamilton or Rosberg, Verstappen said, “I am Max Verstappen, but if I am forced to answer the question, the I am more the Lewis type of driver. However, that does not mean that Nico isn’t a very quick driver.”

Although, when asked if he could beat Hamilton in the same machinery, the then-19 Red Bull man had an interesting reply. He replied, “Absolutely! A racing driver needs to have this confidence. Inside me, I really believe I can beat him.”

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There is clearly a lot of respect for Hamilton in Verstappen’s eyes. To further reiterate the point, when asked if Hamilton could win the 2016 F1 championship with three races to go and a 26-point lead, Verstappen believed Hamilton could.

The respect for Hamilton Verstappen had when he was 19 could not have disappeared completely. The 2021 championship would lead you to believe there’s animosity between the two, but that’s the nature of the sport. However, an on-track rivalry does not translate to disrespect toward your opponent.

Verstappen proved Hamilton’s worth yet again when questioned further.

Verstappen picks Lewis Hamilton again along with a fellow world champion when questioned further

The Dutchman answered more questions about his fellow drivers on the grid from 2016. The next line of questioning saw Verstappen pick the best drivers on the grid from the 2016 lineup.

He answered, “Lewis Hamilton and Fernando Alonso. They are simply the best drivers at the moment.” 

A 19-year-old Verstappen could not have imagined fighting and winning the championship against a driver he considers best on the grid a few years later.

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However, every sport faces a transition period where the new generation takes over from the outgoing one. Although Hamilton competing with the new generation gives us an opportunity to look back at such incidents and reconsider how far they’ve come.