Hamilton full of praise for Verstappen: 'Absolutely awesome to fight with one of the greats'

Lewis Hamilton overtook Max Verstappen in the closing stages of the Canadian Grand Prix to claim second place, describing the wheel-to-wheel duel as an 'absolutely awesome' fight with one of the sport's all-time greats. The seven-time world champion, driving for Ferrari, showed strong pace throughout the race and executed a decisive pass around the outside of Turn 1, earning his second podium of the season.

Why it matters:

Hamilton's performance at a circuit where he has won seven times before signals growing competitiveness for Ferrari. The SF-26 has struggled with straight-line speed, yet Hamilton managed to beat the Red Bull of Verstappen on merit, providing a boost for the team ahead of upcoming races.

The details:

• Hamilton lost time early while trying to stay with Verstappen, but closed in once the Dutchman switched to Medium tyres.
• The Ferrari driver praised the strategic challenge, noting that Ferrari was stronger through corners but Red Bull had superior straight-line speed even with overtake mode.
• He managed his battery deployment carefully to maximise energy on each straight, calling the pass 'unbelievably difficult' but a 'great feeling'.
• Hamilton credited Ferrari for their support and teased further updates already being prepared at the factory.

What's next:

Ferrari is expected to bring additional upgrades in the coming races. Hamilton expressed optimism after Canada, noting that the circuit's layout heavily rewards straight-line speed – historically a weakness for the SF-26. 'We keep pushing,' he said, suggesting that the team's potential is far from fully unlocked.