The title hopes were diminishing with Max Verstappen absolutely dominating the grid and pulling away from the rest of the pack. However, with barely a handful of races left, Lewis Hamilton came to life, as the Briton delivered a string of astonishing performances to level with his arch-rival in the driver’s standings prior to the season finale in Abu Dhabi. Of course, the result did not go his way at Yas Marina.

But, despite the fact that Hamilton lost the fight in the end, his comeback was quite incredible. What’s more, the painful defeat seems to have fired up the seven-time world champion who is already seeking redemption against Verstappen. But, how far will it work out in reality?

Can Hamilton secure his eighth championship title this year despite the potential title threat from Verstappen? Well, quite a bit unlikely according to Dr. Helmut Marko.

What did the Red Bull advisor say?

According to PlanetF1, the Austrian opined that, with the age factor coming into play, Hamilton might not be able to compete at the same level this year as he did during the closing stages of 2021.

“Hamilton delivered an incredible second half of the season,” he said during an interview with OE24. “I can hardly imagine he can drive at this level for much longer. He’s at his zenith now, age is slowly coming into play.”

But, with Verstappen, Marko had a contrasting suggestion.

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Max Verstappen can defeat Lewis Hamilton in 2022

While Hamilton is inching towards his retirement from F1, his rival, Verstappen creeping his way into the prime years of his racing career. Hence, considering the contrasting transition, Marko suggested that Verstappen could soon become undefeatable in the eyes of Hamilton.

“He’s World Champion now and he will get stronger,” Marko added.

Overall, Marko’s theory does make sense to some extent. But, there is something to consider; one can never underestimate Hamilton’s racing capabilities, despite his age. The Briton has spent a rather mentally productive winter with his family and looks fresh and unfazed by the 2021 defeat.

So, it already seems like the fans are going to witness the best version yet of Hamilton the track this year. But, the biggest question is, can Verstappen manage to hold the Briton at bay?

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