‘I agree’: Lewis Admits He Could See £2.5m-a-year F1 Star Replacing Max Verstappen Next Year..
Formula 1 is no stranger to rumors, and the latest one making waves might be one of the biggest yet. Seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton has admitted that he could see a £2.5 million-a-year rising star potentially replacing Max Verstappen as early as next season.
Hamilton’s Surprising Agreement In a recent interview, Lewis Hamilton was asked about the potential of this young star stepping into Verstappen’s seat. “I agree, there’s definitely potential,” Hamilton said, fueling speculation about Verstappen’s future in F1. With Verstappen dominating the sport for several years now, many fans and insiders are wondering if the Red Bull driver’s reign might come to an unexpected halt.
Hamilton’s comments have only intensified those rumors. While Verstappen has been nearly untouchable on the track, whispers of dissatisfaction and behind-the-scenes issues have surfaced throughout the 2024 season.
The Rising Star: Who Could It Be? While Hamilton didn’t explicitly name the driver, all signs point to one of F1’s brightest talents— a £2.5 million-a-year sensation who has been turning heads with remarkable performances. The driver in question is speculated to be Liam Lawson, who has showcased his incredible skills in the Red Bull junior program. With his raw pace and consistency, it’s no wonder he’s being touted as the potential successor to Verstappen’s throne.
At just 22 years old, Lawson has made an undeniable mark on the sport. His performances in both qualifying and race conditions have shown that he’s not only fast but also incredibly adaptable—a key trait that would serve him well in the top-tier Red Bull seat.
Why Verstappen Might Step Away The idea of Verstappen leaving F1 at the height of his career may sound improbable, but there have been murmurs of the Dutchman considering a break or even retirement. Verstappen has hinted at the exhausting nature of the sport and has occasionally spoken about seeking challenges outside of F1. Could this be the reason Red Bull is already scouting his replacement?
Hamilton’s remarks suggest that the possibility is more real than fans might think. If Verstappen does leave, the sport would witness one of its biggest shake-ups in recent years, with Lawson— or another rising talent—taking on the massive responsibility of filling those shoes.
What This Means for F1’s Future The potential of Verstappen’s departure and the arrival of new talent like Lawson would dramatically shift the F1 landscape. A post-Verstappen era would bring fresh rivalries, new dynamics, and perhaps a more competitive grid.
For Hamilton, who has had his fair share of battles with Verstappen, the replacement could open the door for his own resurgence as he chases an eighth world championship. “It would be exciting to see a new challenge on the grid,” Hamilton added.
Conclusion While nothing is set in stone, Lewis Hamilton’s comments have added fuel to the already raging fire of speculation around Max Verstappen’s future. With a potential successor waiting in the wings, the 2025 season could mark the beginning of a new chapter in Formula 1.