Karun Chandhok has shared his belief that Lewis Hamilton’s reign at the top of Formula One is coming to an end, while he commends Max Verstappen’s exceptional performances.
Verstappen’s recent victory in Silverstone marked his sixth consecutive win, solidifying his position at the top of the Drivers’ Championship with an impressive 99-point lead, making his third title seem all but secured.
On the other hand, Hamilton has not secured a single Grand Prix victory in over 18 months and appears to be falling behind Verstappen as long as Mercedes lags behind Red Bull in terms of overall performance.
The seven-time world champion has managed to outperform George Russell so far this year, but hasn’t come close to winning a grand prix.
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Chandhok asserts that Verstappen is currently operating in a league of his own, making it nearly impossible for Hamilton and his rivals to challenge him on a regular basis.
“I just think he’s operating at such a high level,” Chandhok told Sky Sports F1.
“I just think he’s a driver now who’s in such a zone, and the car is in such a good position for him as well, that he’s just got the confidence that he knows he’s not going to go off track, he knows he’s not going to lose the win, he knows he’s not going to get a penalty. It’s commendable, right?”
Chandhok further suggests that Hamilton’s era as a leading Formula One driver has come to an end, with Verstappen taking center stage in recent years since winning his first title in Abu Dhabi under controversial circumstances two years ago.
“You know, it’s the same like when we watch that Lewis era a decade ago, or nearly a decade ago, or when you watch the Michael era two decades ago, we are watching greatness unfold,” added Chandhok.
“And it’s remarkable to see the little details that they achieve.”
It remains uncertain whether Hamilton will be able to reclaim his former glory by clinching a record-breaking eighth championship before eventually retiring from Formula One.
He is widely expected to sign a new contract with Mercedes in the near future, indicating that he still believes he can compete for Grand Prix victories against Verstappen if Mercedes can improve their performance.
Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff recently expressed the view that Hamilton deserves the opportunity to win his eighth Drivers’ Championship after the events in Abu Dhabi in 2021.
Wolff told Sky Sports, “Lewis Hamilton is clearly the most important personality in our sport; he is so multi-dimensional.
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“It is not only the racing driver and world champion, but he is also trailblazing for diversity and sustainability.
“There are no limits for Lewis Hamilton as an entrepreneur or as a politician.
“I think he is one of the most spectacular personalities and characters I’ve ever met.
“We owe him an eighth championship.”