Verstappen on Hamilton contract extension: 'Good for him and Mercedes'

Max Verstappen will compete against Lewis Hamilton at least until 2025. The seven-time world champion - still aiming for his eighth F1 title - extended his contract with Mercedes this week. Verstappen was asked about it by Corriere dello Sport and would be delighted to have another exciting season like 2021 against Hamilton.

Hamilton and Mercedes talked for months about a new commitment, and just before the Italian Grand Prix weekend, there was finally confirmation that the Briton would stay with the team from Brackley for two more years. Is Verstappen happy about that? " For me, it does not change anything, but for him and Mercedes, it is a good thing," the reigning world champion told the Italian newspaper.

Hamilton's qualities are indisputable, and if he gets back a car with which he can compete for wins, Verstappen will have a hefty rival. If, in the future, it turns into another battle like two years ago, Max is not running away from that. "I wouldn't mind. But I also really enjoy winning this way. For a team to dominate like this is the ultimate satisfaction. That's not easy."

Verstappen not unbeatable

At the moment, Verstappen seems unbeatable, but Charles Leclerc said the other day that that is definitely not the case. Verstappen does not look surprised by that. According to him, everything hinges on having confidence in his own ability in Formula 1.

"Those are the classic things that drivers have to say. They have to. If they really thought I was unbeatable, they would give up. For me, it's a very normal comment. Every driver has the need to feel the strongest," the Dutchman concluded.