Lewis Hamilton praises Max Verstappen as the fastest after thrilling Canada GP duel

F1 Lewis Hamilton praises Max Verstappen as the fastest after thrilling Canada GP duel

Lewis Hamilton praises Max Verstappen after intense duel at the F1 Canadian GP: “Overtaking him is a feat, he’s the fastest ever”

Great respect between top rivals: Lewis Hamilton paid tribute to Max Verstappen after the F1 Canadian Grand Prix. The battle between the Ferrari driver and the Dutchman ignited the race finale, with a pass at Turn 1 that will surely rank among the season’s best. In the end, the seven-time world champion claimed second place, fending off all comeback attempts from the driver he calls “the fastest ever“.

F1 Lewis Hamilton praises Max Verstappen as the fastest after thrilling Canada GP duel
Hamilton, Antonelli and Verstappen on the Canada GP podium – PH: Red Bull Content Pool
The Montreal Grand Prix was likely the most exciting of the World Championship so far. The track layout encourages a more daring use of battery power, allowing drivers to push to the limit. The result was a lively, spectacular race that stayed uncertain until the checkered flag.

Andrea Kimi Antonelli won, engaging in a true championship battle with George Russell. The Brit suffered from reliability problems with his W17, while the Bolognese driver pulled away, now holding almost two full races lead over his main title rival. Behind them, the fight for the podium was just as intense: Lewis Hamilton and Max Verstappen recreated their 2021 duel, delivering thrills to the final lap.

Hamilton’s tribute to Verstappen

With laps at the limit, attacks, and defenses worthy of champions, the podium finish with Antonelli was truly legendary for the sport. Lewis Hamilton and Max Verstappen pushed their cars to the maximum, also benefiting from McLaren’s misfortune to secure vital results for their teams.