Villeneuve Makes Astonishing Number Two Driver Claim about Lewis Hamilton
Former Formula One world champion Jacques Villeneuve has sparked controversy with a bold claim that seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton could become a number two driver to Max Verstappen at Mercedes. Villeneuve’s comments come in the wake of Hamilton’s difficult start to the 2023 season, where he has struggled to match the pace of his teammate George Russell. The Canadian believes that Hamilton’s age and recent performances could lead to a decline in his status within the team. “I think Hamilton could become a number two driver this year,” Villeneuve told ESPN. “He’s not the same driver he was a few years ago, and Russell is looking very strong.” Villeneuve pointed to Verstappen’s dominant performance in last year’s championship, where he won 15 races and secured the title with four races to spare. He believes that Hamilton may not be able to keep up with the Dutchman if he continues to struggle. “Verstappen is the best driver in the world right now,” Villeneuve added. “If Hamilton can’t beat him, then he’s going to have to accept that he’s not the number one driver anymore.” Hamilton’s camp has dismissed Villeneuve’s claims, with the British driver insisting that he will not accept a secondary role in the team. Mercedes boss Toto Wolff has also backed Hamilton, saying that he is still the best driver on the grid and the team’s undisputed number one. However, Villeneuve’s comments have raised questions about Hamilton’s future at Mercedes. The 38-year-old driver has one more year on his contract with the team, and it remains to be seen whether he will be offered an extension. For now, Hamilton will be focused on turning around his form and proving that he is still capable of competing at the highest level. If he can do that, then he will silence his doubters and secure his status as one of the greatest drivers in Formula One history.Lazio Accelerates Pursuit of Fisayo Dele-Bashiru
Lazio Accelerates Pursuit of Fisayo Dele-Bashiru
Lazio is intensifying its efforts to secure the signature of Fisayo Dele-Bashiru, a promising Nigerian midfielder currently playing for Hatayspor in the Turkish league. Dele-Bashiru impressed during Nigeria’s match against South Africa, scoring a stunning equalizer. His performances have attracted attention from clubs in Saudi Arabia and Italy, and now, Lazio appears to be leading the race. Recent reports indicate that Lazio officials and Dele-Bashiru’s agent, Paolo Paloni, have held positive discussions. A conference call is scheduled within the next 48 hours to finalize the transfer. The deal is expected to be in the region of €6 million, plus bonuses, aligning with the €7 million release clause for international clubs in Dele-Bashiru’s contract. The Nigerian midfielder is eager to join Lazio and continue his development in Serie A. His potential has drawn comparisons to Michael Folorunsho, another Nigerian midfielder who flourished under Baroni at Verona. Lazio hopes that Dele-Bashiru can bring similar dynamism and impact to their midfield. As Lazio prepares to complete the transfer of Luis Alberto to Al Duhail, they are simultaneously working to bring Dele-Bashiru into the squad. The club believes that he has the attributes to contribute significantly to their future success.
Lewis Hamilton F1 News: Villeneuve Makes Astonishing Number Two Driver Claim
Former Formula One world champion Jacques Villeneuve has made an astonishing claim regarding the pecking order at Mercedes, suggesting that Lewis Hamilton is no longer the team’s number one driver. Speaking to Sky Sports, Villeneuve said: “I think it’s clear that George Russell is now the number one driver at Mercedes.” He went on to explain that Russell’s performance in 2022, in which he outscored Hamilton, was a sign of a changing guard within the team. “George has been consistently faster than Lewis throughout the season,” Villeneuve argued. “He’s made fewer mistakes and has shown a greater ability to adapt to the new regulations.” Villeneuve’s comments have sparked a debate within the F1 community, with many questioning whether Hamilton’s status as a seven-time world champion has been diminished. Hamilton has consistently denied that he has lost his position as the team leader, insisting that he remains the number one driver at Mercedes. However, Villeneuve’s claim is supported by other former F1 drivers, such as Damon Hill and Martin Brundle, who believe that Russell is now the dominant force within the team. The ongoing rivalry between Hamilton and Russell is likely to be a major talking point in the upcoming 2023 season.
