Lewis Hamilton went viral after defending Fernando Alonso, with fans on social media hailing the Briton as a “legend”. The seven-time Formula 1 champion was responding to Alonso’s contract extension with the Silverstone team. Announced ahead of the Bahrain Grand Prix, held in Malaysia, the deal is set to keep the Spaniard with the team until at least the end of 2027. The decision became a talking point in the Sepang International Circuit paddock, where many drivers reacted. Alonso is therefore set to race in Formula 1 at the age of 46.
The scale of his career gives the discussion added weight: Alonso made his Formula 1 debut at the 2001 Australian Grand Prix and has 440 grand prix starts. Hamilton was direct in his assessment: “There’s a lot of drivers at the front who can’t compete with Fernando in pure talent. He’s just not able to show that at the moment.”
Online responses welcomed the show of respect between the drivers. One Reddit user wrote, “Game recognises game,” while another said they liked seeing the pair “occasionally say nice things about each other.” Other commenters called Hamilton a legend and hoped the team could help Alonso fight for points again.
The extension gives Alonso a long-term prospect as the Silverstone team was dealing with car and power unit issues in 2026. Against that backdrop, Hamilton’s distinction between Alonso’s talent and his current ability to display it resonated with fans.
Formula 1Friday practice for the Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia featured a poor track surface and unusual programmes. Max Verstappen said he opted for a long run in case of rain, while Red Bull aimed to learn more about tyre wear.
Formula 1Friday practice for the Bahrain Grand Prix, described in the report as taking place in Malaysia, featured slower lap times and unusual running plans. Max Verstappen opted for a long run as tyre degradation emerged as a central concern.
Formula 1Lewis Hamilton was warned after impeding Gabriel Bortoleto in practice for the Bahrain Grand Prix. Ferrari was fined €10,000 because the team had not warned its driver about traffic while his mirror was damaged.
Formula 1The Ferrari team principal says rumours and repeated questions are disrupting the team. He believes a statement reaffirming Ferrari’s confidence in him had become necessary.
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