F1 legend Lauda says Hamilton can become unbeatable
Monday, 21 Jul 2008 21:49
Hamilton stresses that there's still a long way to go
Formula One legend Niki Lauda believes that Lewis Hamilton could become "unbeatable" after seeing the 23-year-old win back-to-back grand prix races.
Hamilton won the German Grand Prix on Sunday after a stunning victory at Silverstone two weeks previously, and three-time Formula One champion Lauda was full of praise for the McLaren driver.
"He gave an outstanding performance," Lauda said.
"It was a great race from him in Germany and if he continues like this, he will be unbeatable.
"Last year he was my favourite, but he screwed up in the last two races," the former Ferrari and McLaren driver said.
"I think he's got the message now, from Silverstone in a difficult race and here in a difficult race for him. He did an outstanding performance.
"He has now gone up in my estimation," said Lauda, who won who won the drivers' championship in 1975, 1977 and 1984.
"The race was won by Lewis and not by the team, because the team made it unnecessarily complicated (by not pitting Hamilton during the safety car period).
"Whatever excuse they will have, the other way was easier. But if he continues to drive like this, and not start fading like last year in the last couple of races, then he is going in the right direction, no question.
"It was an absolutely great race from him. It was Senna-type driving."
Hamilton himself hailed the weekend as the best of the season for his McLaren team, but stressed that there was still a long way to go despite opening up a four-point lead at the top of the championship.
"I think it has been our best weekend up until now," he said.
"The team have done a great job, and we are really on top of our game right now.
"But we cannot get too far ahead of ourselves. We have got a lot of work to do for the rest of the season."