In a recent debate that inflamed the Formula 1 community, former IndyCar driver Danica Patrick made headlines by snubbing seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton in favor of Max Verstappen during the debate over a tie. The possibility of a showdown between F1’s biggest names driving identical cars is a favorite topic among fans, and Patrick’s bold stance added fuel to the fire.
Patrick, known for her outspoken opinions, claimed that Verstappen’s raw talent, aggressive driving style, and relentless consistency gave him the edge over Hamilton, even on equal terms. “Max is a beast behind the wheel,” she said on her podcast, highlighting his ability to extract every ounce of performance from his car. She pointed to Verstappen’s meteoric rise, including his dominant 2023 season, where he won 19 of 22 races, as proof of his superiority. For Patrick, Verstappen’s hunger for victory and adaptability make him the driver to beat, regardless of era or equipment.
That doesn’t mean Hamilton’s qualities have been completely dismissed. Patrick praised his remarkable career, highlighting his record seven championships and unprecedented success with Mercedes. Hamilton’s ability to remain calm under pressure, his strategic acumen, and his knack for succeeding in critical moments have cemented his status as one of F1’s all-time greats. However, Patrick argued that Hamilton’s achievements were enhanced by the fact he drove for a dominant team for much of his career, particularly during Mercedes’ dominance in the turbo-hybrid era from 2014 to 2020. In contrast, she praised Verstappen for thriving at the wheel of a Red Bull car that, while competitive, hasn’t always been the undisputed leader in the category.
The idea of equal performance is a fascinating topic in F1, where car performance often overshadows driver skill. Fans and pundits alike dream of seeing legends like Hamilton, Verstappen, Michael Schumacher, and Ayrton Senna go head-to-head in identical cars to definitively settle the GOAT debate. Patrick’s verdict, however, rests on Verstappen’s current form and bold approach. She highlighted his ability to dominate races from pole position or work his way up the field from lower on the grid, demonstrating a versatility she believes Hamilton may lack at this stage of his career.
Patrick’s detractors argue that Hamilton’s experience and racing acumen would shine at a circuit of similar power. At 40, Hamilton remains a formidable force, as evidenced by his resounding comeback in the 2024 season, including a victory at Silverstone that silenced his doubters. His supporters argue that his ability to manage tires, read the race, and execute impeccable overtakes would give him an edge over Verstappen’s more aggressive and sometimes erratic style. They also point to Hamilton’s consistency in dealing with varying car regulations and team dynamics, from McLaren to Mercedes, as evidence of his adaptability.
The debate isn’t just about driving style; it’s also about intangibles like mental toughness and preparation. Verstappen’s relentless work ethic and time spent in the simulator are well documented, but Hamilton’s influence off the track—his commitment to diversity and sustainability—adds a layer of resilience that’s reflected in his racing performances. Yet Patrick remains unmoved, insisting that Verstappen’s “killer instinct” trumps all.
Ultimately, Patrick’s refusal to favor Hamilton over Verstappen underscores the subjective nature of comparing F1’s greats. Equivalent machines may level the playing field, but it’s the driver’s heart, talent, and mindset that tip the scales. For now, Verstappen has Patrick’s vote, but the F1 world will continue to debate whether Hamilton’s legacy or Verstappen’s dominance will prevail in this hypothetical clash of the titans.
