Overview

• Lewis Hamilton said he would recommend his former team to Max Verstappen and has no “problem” with him joining Mercedes.
• Hamilton praised Verstappen’s conduct during their 2021 title battle, stating he “did what he needed to do” and acted fairly.
• He described Verstappen as “a strong opponent in any car,” downplaying concerns about facing him at Mercedes.
• Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff has pursued Verstappen since Hamilton’s departure was confirmed in February 2024 but failed to secure him for 2025.
• The 2026 power‐unit rules are expected to favour Mercedes’ engine development, fueling renewed speculation about Verstappen’s potential switch.