Stewart not ruling out Hamilton's chances: "Ferrari want to be winners"
Exclusive
Sir Jackie Stewart has been a part of Formula 1 for more than half a century, both as a three-time world champion and a respected ambassador for the sport. During a relaxed moment in the paddock at Albert Park, he took the time to share his expectations for the Australian Grand Prix in an exclusive chat with GPblog.
Stewart looks ahead: 'I think it will be a tough race'
Stewart, dressed as always in his signature Scottish checkered trousers and matching cap - an outfit almost as iconic as his impressive career - logically attracts the necessary attention with his presence at the Melbourne circuit. Despite the crowds in the paddock, Sir Jackie quietly takes the time to look ahead to Sunday's F1 race.
"I think there are about four very competitive teams and their drivers," he begins when asked who he sees as favourites for the race. "Obviously, Ferrari want to be winners, but McLaren still seems to have the slight edge." Red Bull Racing - especially Max Verstappen - are also not to be discounted. "I think it will be a tough race," concludes the 85-year-old Scot.
When the changeable weather is brought up, he nods thoughtfully. "They say the weather’s going to be very different tomorrow with the rain. Then it’s a whole different business. You’ve got to stay out of trouble," Stewart stresses, before adding a memorable quote: "To finish first, first you must finish. And that’s often the case where it doesn’t happen."
The three-time world champion suspects that not only experience and talent but also ambition will play a big role in such conditions. "Lewis Hamilton is the most experienced of them. But on the other hand, the younger ones are more ambitious. And right now, that's showing up. So, I think it will be a good race. I think it will be a first-class race," he said with a glint in his eye.
Stewart clear: 'Verstappen will definitely be up there'
Stewart has often expressed his admiration for Verstappen over the years, and he does so again when the Dutchman comes up in discussion. Asked what the four-time world champion can do when rain comes into play, his answer is clear: "He is very good. He is very talented. He will definitely be up there," the three-time world champion says without hesitation.
The racing legend nods in agreement when asked if Verstappen has that little bit extra on a wet track: "The rain changes a lot. Some drivers are a little bit better than others. So, let’s wait and see," Stewart concludes the conversation with a clear message.
This article was written in collaboration with Olly Darcy
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