As a seven-time world champion, and holder of multiple records in F1, Hamilton’s credentials in the sport are there for all to see, including his fellow drivers.
”I think from the outside you never know for sure what is going on but Lewis doesn’t need to prove anything,” said two-time world champion Fernando Alonso, who was Hamilton‘s team-mate at McLaren for one season in 2007.
“He’s an incredible driver and he will figure out sooner or later to be at the top pace. He and Ferrari will be always a combo that you need to respect a lot.”
Hamilton’s former Mercedes team-mate George Russell echoed Alonso’s words, saying that apart from McLaren duo Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris, who are one and two in the title race, most drivers are looking forward to 2026, when the regulation changes usher in a new era.
“I think, right now, with 14 races down, probably every driver bar two are looking forward to 2026 and for a fresh opportunity to fight for the championship,” said Russell.
“For someone like Lewis, that’s what he lives for, not just getting in the points.”
Following the race in Zandvoort, Hamilton will be welcomed by the tifosi for the first time at Monza for next week’s Italian Grand Prix.