Lewis Hamilton is one of the greatest drivers to have ever raced in Formula 1. Statistics back this argument and so do tons of F1 pundits, racers, and fans. However, the 7-time champion, in the last year and a half has been compared to his 25-year-old teammate, George Russell multiple times. Even though Hamilton hasn’t that easily come out on top, his ex-teammate and arch-nemesis, Fernando Alonso has shut the debate once and for all.

2022 was a disappointment and an embarrassment for Hamilton. Not only did Mercedes let him down but also Russell outclassed him in the World Championship, scoring 35 more points and finishing in P4, 2 positions ahead of the 7x champ. But the tables have turned in 2023. Russell, who got labeled ‘Mr. Consistency’ in 2022 has been inconsistent in 2023. Meanwhile, Hamilton has capitalized on that to take a 55-point lead in the WDC. Using this fact to back his stance, Alonso has chosen Hamilton as the clear winner in this intra-team rivalry.

In an event in Madrid lately, Alonso said, “But he’s fast, and look, compare him with Russell, who’s also a great driver. In the end, Hamilton is doing a better year. He has a lot more points than George, and he shows that he always gives his all on the track.”

Read More: Days After Lewis Hamilton’s Scathing Insult, Fernando Alonso Snubs Sergio Perez to Focus on the Real Challenge

The W14 isn’t seemingly a big upgrade on 2022’s W13. Still, Hamilton has found the pace to get podiums. A former British racer believes it is the change in the Briton’s mindset that is turning things around.

Martin Brundle appreciated the newfound aggressiveness of Lewis Hamilton

Lewis Hamilton signed a mega $127 million contract renewal with the Silver Arrows ahead of the Italian GP. Since then, his comments on his rival, Max Verstappen have been quite fiery. The most prominent insult was that the Dutchman’s World Championships aren’t as well-earned because he has never had competent teammates to fight against as Hamilton did. And Martin Brundle absolutely loves this aggressive side of him.

“I hope this is the new Lewis after signing his new contract,” Brundle said, as quoted by GPfans. “Normally he is very diplomatic about this kind of thing. Now he chose the attack with a very strong opinion, which he almost made appear as knowledge. I liked it.”

Do you think it’s ‘Hammertime’ in Hamilton’s head? Because if it is, Verstappen is done for.

WATCH THIS STORY | Lewis Hamilton’s Top 5 Extravagant Possessions