David Coulthard faced a tough decision between Max Verstappen and Lewis Hamilton during a World Champion shoot-out.
David Coulthard: Choosing Between Hamilton and Verstappen
Participating in an off-season podcast, Coulthard was challenged to select from a lineup of World Champion drivers, ultimately leading to a face-off between Verstappen and Hamilton in the final round.
On the Red Flags podcast, Coulthard had the difficult task of deciding between the two renowned drivers. He stated, “I’m going to go with Max.” This selection may not surprise those who are familiar with his opinions.
He explained, “Every generation should improve; that’s what evolution is about. While Hamilton has been exceptional, I find Max to be very grounded and authentic in his demeanor. He openly expresses his emotions during press interactions, making it clear how he feels.”
Coulthard pointed out the challenges Hamilton has faced in recent seasons, saying, “It seems like he hasn’t reached his peak anymore. It can be controversial for me to say that, but top drivers consistently outperform their teammates. Recently, Hamilton hasn’t matched his renewed competitor, George Russell.”
Discussing generational advantages, he acknowledged that Verstappen, being over a decade younger than Hamilton, benefits from modern racing simulations that enhance his skills, something Hamilton didn’t have during his early career. “While these tools weren’t available in my time, it’s crucial to make the most of the resources we have,” he remarked.
Despite choosing Verstappen, Coulthard later identified Ayrton Senna as his all-time favorite driver. Reflecting on his tenure at Williams following Senna’s tragic death, Coulthard noted Senna’s unique aura, stating, “There was something about him that made people feel his presence even before they saw him.” He emphasized that Max, while exceptionally talented, lacks the same mystical charm that Senna possessed.
