Damon Hill, the former Formula 1 world champion, has utilised the statistical categories from the F123 video game to construct his ultimate F1 driver, concluding that Red Bull ace Max Verstappen is currently the best racer in the pinnacle of motorsport.
Verstappen, who is currently leading the championship in 2023 after a dominant start to the season, has secured six victories out of the first eight races, establishing a commanding 69-point lead over Sergio Perez in second place.
At the recent Canadian Grand Prix, Verstappen showcased his dominance by achieving a lights-to-flag victory, with multiple champions Fernando Alonso and Lewis Hamilton finishing second and third, respectively.
The podium celebration was hailed as one of the most iconic in history, with the three drivers collectively boasting 11 world titles.
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During an episode of the F1 Nation podcast, Hill was challenged to construct a champion using four key categories: pace, racecraft, experience, and awareness.
When discussing the category of pace, Hill likened Verstappen’s fearless and high-speed style to that of Ayrton Senna, stating: “I would say Verstappen.
“In just sheer one lappery.
“He’s got that Senna-esque kind of scary, on-the-edge speed.
“I know Lewis has that too, but he’s a tiny bit more Prost-like.
“More neat and tidy. It’s the willingness Max has to go into the danger zone.”
Hill awarded Hamilton the accolade for racecraft, acknowledging the British driver’s exceptional ability to work effectively with his engineers.
“I think it’s Lewis. He works with his engineers very effectively,” Hill remarked.
In terms of experience, Hill emphasised that Alonso possesses the most well-rounded level of expertise, having competed in the highest number of Grand Prix races.
“You’ve got to say that Fernando’s got the greater experience,” Hill explained.
“Not only has he competed in more races, but he has also endured challenging times with uncompetitive cars.
“While Lewis had a brief stint at McLaren, he quickly transitioned to a more competitive situation.
“Alonso’s exposure to different scenarios and management makes him more complete. Fernando could run F1; he knows so much about the game.”
Although Hill did not specifically select one driver for awareness, he highlighted Alonso’s ability to think beyond the sheer task of keeping the car on the track.
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“Fernando is able to think just beyond the sheer business of keeping the car on the track,” Hill said.
When pressed to choose an overall winner, Hill unequivocally declared Verstappen as the current favourite.
“Currently where we’re at, you’d put your money on Max [Verstappen],” Hill stated, affirming Verstappen’s exceptional performance and positioning in the championship race.
The Dutchman heads into this weekend’s 2023 Austrian GP with a 69-point lead over Sergio Perez at the top of the Drivers’ Championship.