Verstappen Flipped Hamilton's Psychological Game to Win 2021 Title
Why it matters: The 2021 F1 World Championship between Max Verstappen and Lewis Hamilton wasn't just about raw speed; mental warfare played an equally decisive role, as revealed by Verstappen's former performance engineer, Bradley Scanes.
The Details:
- Hamilton's Habit: Lewis Hamilton was known for taking his time in the cool-down room after qualifying or races. He would meticulously change out of his kit, get his hair done, and put on his own clothes, making rivals wait.
- Verstappen's Counter: Verstappen, initially quick to leave, began to adapt. He started mirroring Hamilton's routine, intentionally slowing down his own process by changing every part of his kit.
- A Power Shift: Scanes described this as a deliberate "power trip" move. It was a subtle, yet potent, statement from Verstappen: "We’re not waiting for you anymore, the baton has been passed and we’re taking over from here."
What's next: This psychological maneuver contributed significantly to Verstappen's 2021 championship victory. It proved that he could not only match Hamilton on track but also outsmart the seven-time world champion in the subtle mental battles, ultimately securing his first title.