Coulthard picks Verstappen over Hamilton in GOAT showdown

Core summary – In a recent episode of the Red Flags podcast, former champion David Coulthard was asked to choose the better driver between Max Verstappen and Lewis Hamilton. He sided with Verstappen, citing the Dutchman's honesty, evolving talent and modern training tools, while still placing Ayrton Senna at the very top of his all‑time list.

Why it matters:

• The GOAT debate shapes how fans, media and teams frame a driver’s legacy.
• Coulthard’s view carries weight; his experience as a champion‑driver and commentator gives the verdict credibility.
• His choice highlights a generational shift: younger drivers benefit from advanced simulators and data‑rich environments that were unavailable to Hamilton’s early years.

The details:

• Final four: Coulthard whittled his list down to Michael Schumacher, Ayrton Senna, Max Verstappen and Lewis Hamilton.
• Why Verstappen: He praised Verstappen’s grounded personality, willingness to speak his mind, and the sense that the Dutchman is still improving.
• Hamilton’s peak?: Coulthard suggested Hamilton may have passed his absolute peak, pointing to a perceived lack of recent on‑track battles with teammates like George Russell or Charles Leclerc.
• Tech advantage: Verstappen’s upbringing with sophisticated racing simulators gave him a sharper edge, something Hamilton didn’t have as a child.
• Senna as ultimate: Despite picking Verstappen in the head‑to‑head, Coulthard crowned Senna as his all‑time great, recalling the aura Senna commanded and the personal impact on his own early career.
• Family factor: He credited Verstappen’s father Jos and mother Sophie for creating an environment that nurtured a truly exceptional driver.

What's next:

• As Verstappen chases more records, the GOAT conversation will intensify, especially if he adds further championships.
• Hamilton’s potential final title hunt could swing the debate back in his favor.
• Coulthard’s Red Flags format may spark similar match‑ups, keeping the discussion fresh for fans and pundits alike.