Montoya's criticism of Red Bull: 'They went a bit too far in that'

According to Montoya, in 2021 we see a different Hamilton to the one that ran away with all the titles year after year. "Lewis always had the best car, so he never had to take risks. Over a whole season it would fall his way anyway," the Colombian explained in conversation with Motorsport.com.

A new Hamilton, by Verstappen

"Now we see a very different Lewis, one we haven't seen for a few years. And that's positive," Montoya continued. Hamilton is being put under intense pressure in 2021 by Verstappen who is fighting for his first world title. According to Montoya, the Dutchman is forcing Hamilton to go to the limit. "So I think Max has ensured that we get to see a new Lewis, in that he now has to go the extra mile."

Montoya himself hopes Verstappen can claim his maiden world title in 2021, but he is not yet confident that he will. The former McLaren driver believes the Mercedes was significantly improved before the summer break and Hamilton knows from previous years exactly what it takes to win a world title.

Red Bull not focused on the right thing

Red Bull also focus too much on things that happen off the track according to Montoya. "After the incident at Silverstone they went a bit far in trying to make a point, rather than leaving it all behind and looking forward, which I think was the best thing to do," concludes the seven-time Grand Prix winner.