Mercedes driver Hamilton has not won a grand prix for the second year in a row as Red Bull teammate Sergio Perez has won two of the remaining three races, while Max Verstappen has won 19 of the 22 races.
Former Formula One world champion Jenson Button claims that Lewis Hamilton, his former teammate, needs “the right car” in order to start at the front of the grid the following season, with Red Bull once again being the favorites to win in 2024. Mercedes driver Hamilton has not won a grand prix for the second year in a row as Red Bull teammate Sergio Perez has won two of the remaining three races, while Max Verstappen has won 19 of the 22 races. “Next year, Red Bull will lead the pack once more,” Button told AFP.
“They were able to work on the car for next year because they had a strong car this year.
“The thing is, there have been some incredible races this year, even if all you do is glance at the race results and think, ‘Oh, Max Verstappen won again.'”
“Max hasn’t gotten everything his way. Although he ultimately prevailed, this season has seen some incredible fights.
“I’ve had a good year. Would it please me if more people won? Of course, yes. But it hasn’t actually occurred.”
Button knows a thing or two about dominance having won six of the first seven races in 2009, a start that propelled him to the title with Brawn. He recently announced a return to full-time racing in 2024 with the World Endurance Championship.
Additionally, he admires Verstappen’s unwavering focus when going about his business.
Button remarked, “I think Max has done such an amazing job.”
“He hasn’t made a single mistake. It’s obvious that he drives a nice car—winning is impossible without one—but all you have to do is compare him to his teammate’s position in the majority of races. What a difference it makes.
“Red Bull is still the favorite heading into 2024, but I believe the other teams will be a little closer.
“Being in the right frame of mind won’t make it easy to beat Max in a Red Bull.”
‘Definitely good enough’.
Seven-time champion Hamilton, who will be 39 by the start of the next season, is among those with reasonable expectations of taking on Verstappen.
Is it realistic for him to hope to compete the way he did in the exciting and contentious 2021 championship race?
“If Lewis didn’t think he was good enough, he wouldn’t race,” claims Button, who pitted alongside Hamilton at McLaren.
Lewis has the ability to win races and a championship if he has the proper vehicle.
“Although facing Max is challenging, I’m looking forward to the fight if Max and Lewis are both driving cars that fit them well.
“Hopefully it will happen before Lewis retires; I’m sure he can pull that off.”
Button, 43, will compete in the World Endurance Championship’s eight races, including Le Mans, in the Hypercar class. Hertz Team JOTA will be driving a Porsche 963.
