Former driver Martin Brundle takes a look at the upcoming F1 championship. Despite a dramatic first season at Ferrari, the Englishman has high expectations for Lewis Hamilton. Although he clearly fell short last year, Brundle expects the former champion, now 41, to be fighting for the title again soon. However, there are more contenders: George Russell, but also Max Verstappen and both McLaren drivers, could join the title race.
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“As Formula 1 fans, we all naturally want Ferrari to do well, right? Besides, I would find that great for Hamilton,” Brundle began his analysis for Sky Sports. “He looks a bit happier now,” the Englishman noted. “He will also make the most of the opportunities the new regulations offer him. Then, of course, he has to beat Charles Leclerc, and he is also particularly strong. But history teaches us that a happy Lewis is also a fast Lewis. Moreover, Ferrari has innovated significantly; they are in a better position than in previous years. I am therefore confident that Lewis will have a stronger season.”
‘Russell does not buckle under pressure from Verstappen’
Brundle, however, sees no clear favorite for the upcoming season. For now, he foresees a title battle between McLaren, Mercedes, Red Bull, and Ferrari. “Both Ferrari drivers will be strong, but I also expect a lot from McLaren,” he continued. “Piastri has a clear mission after what he learned last year. And Norris has never had such a wide grin on his face; he is bursting with self-confidence. Additionally, the Red Bull looks strong too. We all know how incredibly Verstappen can control his car, and that could be the deciding factor this season. So for me, there is no clear favorite.”
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Brundle is also explicitly positive about Russell. The Brit is starting his eighth season in Formula 1 and is considered a title favorite by the bookmakers. “I think he is ready,” said Brundle. “He is a smart guy. By the way, they all are. Antonelli will be stronger this year, but Russell has now completely stepped out of Hamilton’s shadow: he is the king of Mercedes. He has the experience, the car control, and will command the necessary respect within the team.” Finally, Brundle drew a parallel with last season, in which the new generation held their ground under pressure. “We wondered last year if Norris and Piastri would buckle under pressure from Verstappen, but that didn’t happen. In that respect, I think Russell is in a very good position.”
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