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Damon Hill tempers talk: Verstappen not yet the 'best driver'

Former world champion Damon Hill has taken a critical view of claims that Max Verstappen is currently the undisputed best driver.

By Hans van den Broekma - 2026-07-14T18:48:57.000Z - 1 min read

Photo: Morio / Wikimedia Commons · CC BY-SA 4.0

The recurring debate over who exactly is the 'best driver' in the world has gained a new chapter. With Max Verstappen's ongoing dominance, some voices in the paddock seem eager to swiftly accord the ultimate title to the Dutchman.

This time, it was former Formula 1 champion Damon Hill who felt compelled to counter the discussion. He stated he was 'strongly disagreeing' with recent assertions that already awarded Verstappen this status outright—a striking and clear stance from the Brit.

Although the precise catalyst for Hill's fierce reaction—which exact statements triggered him—remains somewhat unclear, his position appears crystal clear. The former world champion refuses to accept hasty conclusions in an ongoing debate that naturally keeps emotions high.

Hill thus plays his part in the continuous polemic surrounding driver status in Formula 1. After all, it would be a shame to settle such debates prematurely, given the rich history and wealth of talent the sport possesses.

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