Fernando Alonso and Lewis Hamilton could yet give Max Verstappen a run for his money
circus moves back to Europe for this weekend’s Austrian Grand Prix, the three drivers heading the pack chasing the world champion, Max Verstappen, have a combined age of 112. The trio are Sergio Pérez, Mr Verstappen’s team-mate in the Red Bull team, Fernando Alonso of Aston Martin and Lewis Hamilton of Mercedes.
What few in the pit lane would dispute, however, is that if Mr Alonso and Mr Hamilton had cars as fast as Red Bull’s peerless19, the 25-year-old Mr Verstappen would have a fight on his hands. Both are currently quicker than their much younger team-mates, Lance Stroll and the highly talented George Russell.
There are many reasons why, despite the precocity of a generational talent like Mr Verstappen or, in his day, Ayrton Senna, older drivers have thrived in the modern era of1. The first is that although crashes can be just as spectacular as they were in the past, drivers can have longer careers because they are far less likely to be killed or be forced into retirement by life-changing injuries. In the 1970s, 12 drivers died on the track; in the decade before, 14.
Another reason why racing careers are longer is that sports science has made it possible for super-competitors such as Mr Hamilton and Mr Alonso to have individually tailored regimes. These have given them physical capabilities and even the reaction times of much younger men. The same has applied in men’s tennis where Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic have between them won 65 grand slams and dominated the sport for two decades.
United States Latest News, United States Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Percat to run factory Alonso Kart teamSupercars driver Nick Percat will spearhead his own factory Alonso Kart team from next year onwards.
Read more »
Lewis Capaldi 'leaning on girlfriend for support' after cancelling tour datesLewis Capaldi is leaning on his girlfriend for support after taking an extended break from his career to understand the impact of his Tourette's syndrome.
Read more »
Lewis Capaldi 'leaning on girlfriend for comfort' after devastating announcement‘As soon as he got home, Ellie made sure she was here for him.’ Lewis Capaldi's friend has said that the star is leaning on his girlfriend, Ellie MacDowall, for support after announcing he was taking a break from touring for his mental health.
Read more »
Martin Lewis warns anyone who pays bills by direct debit to act before FridayIf you don't take one simple step this week you could end up paying more for gas and electricity
Read more »
Billions season 7 first-look trailer teases Damian Lewis returnBobby Axelrod is back.
Read more »