F1 News
Hamilton gives his verdict on Norris' chance to challenge Verstappen
When it comes to winning World Championships in Formula 1, there is no one better than Lewis Hamilton. The seven-time World Champion is one of the most prolific to do so, winning six at Mercedes and his first at McLaren in 2008. Although it is very unlikely that he and Mercedes will be challenging for the title this year, the Brit is very excited to see the challenge his former team are taking to Red Bull. The 39-year-old has had his say on whether Lando Norris can take on Max Verstappen in the drivers' championship.
Hamilton says the gap 'can be closed if the job is done right'
Speaking in the paddock at the Monaco Grand Prix to the media including GPblog, Hamilton shared his excitement to see McLaren and Norris challenging at the front of the grid, and he believes that Lando can challenge thanks to maximising everything out of his papaya-coloured car.
"I think he [Norris] is doing a great job," said the Mercedes driver. "Oscar is also doing a really great job as well. He's just been unlucky in the last couple of races. So excited to see both of them, and how they both progress, but mostly also for McLaren, to see them back up there. It warms my heart because I was there for such a long time and they gave me my break. So it's cool."
Of course, 2008 was the first of seven world titles for Hamilton in his career, and McLaren have yet to win a driver's title since then. Finally, they are finding the pace to stay at the front of the grid, and Hamilton says that his former team have done a great job to get there.
"I think they [McLaren] also have just shown that you can close the gap and you can catch up if the job's done right. It's inspired us all to get on it, and I hope that we can get closer as well."