F1 Today: Hamilton Reflects on 2021 Season, Norris Sarcastic on Verstappen's Comeback

Lewis Hamilton recently spoke about his 2021 Formula 1 season, describing it as one of his strongest, despite missing out on an eighth world title. Meanwhile, Lando Norris offered a sarcastic response when asked about Max Verstappen's recent surge in form and its impact on McLaren.

Why it matters:

• Hamilton's reflections offer a deeper insight into his mindset during one of F1's most controversial seasons, highlighting his performance under immense pressure and the emotional impact of the Abu Dhabi finale.
• Norris's reaction, though sarcastic, underscores the growing competitive tension within the paddock as Verstappen continues to dominate, even amidst McLaren's improved form. It hints at the psychological games and pressure faced by drivers constantly asked about their rivals.

The Details:

• Hamilton's 2021 Season Assessment: Lewis Hamilton described his 2021 campaign as "one of the best of his illustrious career" in a recent interview. He emphasized his ability to maximize the potential of the W12 car, even without significant upgrades.
  • The season culminated in a dramatic title fight with Max Verstappen, which was ultimately decided by a late safety car incident in Abu Dhabi, preventing Hamilton from securing a record eighth world championship.
• Norris's Sarcastic Take on Verstappen: Lando Norris expressed apparent fatigue with persistent questions about Max Verstappen's title challenge and its implications for McLaren. Following the Singapore Grand Prix, when quizzed about Verstappen's form, Norris sarcastically replied, "I am very concerned."
• Verstappen's Recent Form: Since the Dutch Grand Prix, Verstappen has been the highest-scoring driver on the grid, securing two victories and two additional podium finishes. This strong performance has significantly reduced his points gap to both Norris and championship leader Oscar Piastri.

Between the lines:

While Hamilton reflects on a past season, his comments resonate with the ongoing narrative of competitive excellence and the thin margins in F1. Norris's sarcasm, on the other hand, suggests a mix of genuine frustration and perhaps a strategic downplaying of a rival's performance to manage expectations and pressure on his own team.

What's next:

With six races and three sprint events remaining in the season, Verstappen's momentum is a key storyline. Whether Norris and McLaren can maintain their improved performance and genuinely challenge the Red Bull ace, or if Verstappen will continue his dominant streak, remains to be seen. The psychological battles, as much as the on-track performance, will be critical in the concluding stages of the championship.