Toto Wolff has weighed in after Fernando Alonso suggested Max Verstappen’s titles were worth more than Lewis Hamilton’s. The Mercedes team boss believes Alonso “enjoys that sort of thing” but stressed the comment had not affected Hamilton.
Alonso claimed Hamilton’s success was less important as he only had to beat his team-mate. In comparison, he said Verstappen has never had to fight with Sergio Perez in the same way Hamilton battled with Valterri Bottas and Nico Rosberg.
He even compared the Dutchman’s success to his own at Renault in 2005 and 2006? when he was up against Michael Schumacher. Responding to the comments, Wolff explained: “He’s a funny guy.
“He makes headlines, and this sport is built on headlines. They are both great world champions.
“Alonso enjoys that sort of thing, but I don’t think it’s bothering Lewis one millimetre.” Hamilton responded to Alonso’s criticism in a cryptic social media message ahead of the Mexican Grand Prix.
Hamilton simply posted a picture of the pair on the podium together in 2007 with a thumbs-up emoji. When questioned about the tension, Hamilton revealed the comments had simply “made him giggle”.
Verstappen secured his first title last season in an epic battle with Hamilton which was decided at the final race. In 2022, the Red Bull star then fought with Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc before the Monegasque’s title bid failed to materialise.
