Hamilton and Verstappen ready to resume their duel at Imola

Lewis Hamilton salary. Max Verstappen : this is the announced poster for this 2021 campaign, which began with a first electric duel under the floodlights of the Sakhir circuit in Bahrain 3 weeks ago. 

While the pilot Red Bull had more efficient equipment on paper, his seven-time world champion rival had won thanks to a better strategy, a hint of cunning in his application of the limits of the route, and the brilliance that we know him. 

For perhaps the first time in the hybrid era that began with the introduction of the 1L turbo V6 in 1.6, Mercedes does not start the season as favorite. Not enough to change the situation in the German clan, according to Hamilton. 

« We approach the weekend as we always have in the past, declared the Briton this Thursday from Imola. Why change a formula that works?

I think back to the fights we had with Ferrari and Seb (Hag) these last years ; we just have to keep our heads on the handlebars. We love taking on challenges and it’s stimulating to face this level of competition. We are not going to run away from the obstacle, that is not the style of the house ». 

Verstappen, for his part, appeared relaxed and smiling, as if animated by a quiet strength and the certainty of finally being able to rely on a car capable of fighting for the title. If the defeat of Sakhir was bitter for the born competitor that is the Batavian, the latter did not see the point in languishing. 

« It was disappointing not to win in Bahrain of course but if finishing 2nd is a bad result then I look forward to the next 22 races, confided Verstappen. 

We have a very competitive car, although the conditions will be different compared to Bahrain this weekend. Afterwards, I don’t see why we wouldn’t be involved.” 

If Hamilton has not changed his approach to competition, could it be that his main rival has become wiser, his fiery temperament sometimes turning against his interests?

« Over the seasons, I learned that a championship is not decided on the opening racehe replied. 

The most important thing is to score points. Last year, we weren't on the pace of the best and we left the first race empty-handed. (in Austria, Editor’s note). 

This year, the car is performing well and we pocketed big points. We didn't win, of course, but it's not the end of the world. We have 22 opportunities to do better ». 

Rest assured: Verstappen has not turned into a grocer. And Hamilton is arguably never more sublime than when he is pushed to his limits. Something to make your mouth water before Act II of their duel this Sunday in trans landsalpines.