'He is one of the greatest drivers': Max Verstappen on relations with arch-rival Lewis Hamilton

Reigning F1 world champion Max Verstappen recently opened up on his relationship with arch-rival Lewis Hamilton. The Dutchman, during the Chinese Grand Prix, heaped praise on the Great Britan driver and says he has no desire to deny the greatness of the seven-time world champion, currently with Mercedes. Hamilton is set to leave Mercedes and join Ferrari from the 2025 season.

It is to be noted that Verstappen and Hamilton were involved in a bitter battle for the 2021 championship that continued throughout the season. Their relations were not the best due to multiple on-track collisions and were further complicated by a controversial end to the season finale, seeing Red Bull driver Verstappen crowned champion.

Nonetheless, seems like everything is now in the past and both Hamilton and Verstappen have moved on. During the China GP weekend, held on April 21, the Dutchman stated that he maintains a straightforward relationship with his arch-rival and there is mutual respect between them.

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Hamiltondefinitelyone of the greatest drivers ever: Verstappen

Talking to the Daily Mail, Verstappen said, "Of course, we had a big rivalry in 2021 but ultimately we do have a lot of respect for each other. He is definitely up there as one of the greatest drivers ever. I have no need or desire to deny that."

Further, 25-year-old Verstappen lauded Hamilton for his dominant run in the sport, wherein he racked up six championships between 2014 and 2020 before the former took over. The Red Bull driver further stated that Hamilton has made a difference in the sport courtesy of the high points in his career.

"Consistency is his key, and staying on top of his game. That is not so hard when you are so talented – it doesn’t take a lot of effort to do that. The way he has managed his championships is very impressive. He has stood up when he needed to and made the difference," he added.

The two recently shared the top two positions in the China GP at the Shanghai International Circuit with Verstappen ending at the top.