Steiner Ranks Verstappen Above Hamilton in All-Time F1 Driver List

Former Haas team principal Guenther Steiner has controversially placed Max Verstappen higher than Lewis Hamilton in his list of the ten greatest F1 drivers of all time. Despite Hamilton's record-equaling seven world titles and numerous F1 records, Steiner's ranking reflects a nuanced view on what constitutes an 'all-time great,' emphasizing drivers who seek challenges beyond Formula 1.

Why it matters:

This ranking from a seasoned F1 insider like Guenther Steiner sparks debate and offers a unique perspective on driver greatness, moving beyond mere statistics. It highlights differing philosophies on what defines a champion: sheer F1 dominance versus a broader passion for motorsport and diverse challenges. This discussion is particularly relevant as both drivers continue to shape F1 history.

The Details:

• Steiner's Ranking: Guenther Steiner lists Max Verstappen above Lewis Hamilton in his top ten all-time F1 drivers, a notable stance given Hamilton's unparalleled statistical achievements.
• Hamilton's Placement: Hamilton, tied with Michael Schumacher for the most world titles and holding records for wins and pole positions, is placed seventh by Steiner.
  • Steiner acknowledges Hamilton's immense success, respecting his journey from humble beginnings to a global 'rock star' and his consistent speed during his heyday.
  • However, Steiner notes that Hamilton's continued active participation doesn't automatically put him at the very top. He emphasizes the difficulty of comparing drivers across different eras due to evolving competitive landscapes.
• Verstappen's Potential: Steiner believes Verstappen has the potential to climb higher on this list, especially if he continues his current trajectory of winning championships and demonstrates a passion for diverse racing.
  • Steiner specifically praises Verstappen's willingness to race in other categories, such as GT cars, seeing it as a hallmark of a truly special driver.
  • The 'Special' Factor: For Steiner, a driver who engages in various forms of racing outside Formula 1 is more interesting and demonstrates a purer love for the sport, setting them apart.

Between the lines:

Steiner's criteria for 'greatness' appear to extend beyond F1-specific statistics. He values a driver's broader commitment to motorsport and their willingness to prove themselves in different disciplines. This suggests a romanticized view of racing, where a true champion is not just an F1 specialist but a versatile racer at heart. This perspective offers a counter-narrative to the often stats-driven debates about F1's greatest.

What's next:

Both Hamilton and Verstappen are scheduled to appear together at the FIA press conference in Austin, ahead of the United States Grand Prix. While unlikely to discuss Steiner's list, their continued presence at the pinnacle of F1 ensures ongoing comparisons and debates about their respective legacies. Verstappen aims to further solidify his dominance, while Hamilton continues his pursuit of an unprecedented eighth world title.