Vettel insists Schumacher best driver in formular 1 history
Sebastian Vettel insists Michael Schumacher will remain the best driver in Formula 1 history even if Lewis Hamilton wins five more world championships.
Hamilton and Schumacher currently hold a record of seven titles apiece, but the Mercedes man could stay clear if he surpasses Max Verstappen at this weekend’s Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.
The season-ending race at Yas Marina sees Hamilton and Verstappen’s Red Bull arrive with 369.5 points in the standings.
Lewis Hamilton has a chance to surpass Michael Schumacher’s title record this weekend
The Briton insists a possible eighth title would be the best of his career, given the battle the pair have had.
However, Vettel believes Schumacher – who won seven titles between 1994 and 2004 – will still be unassailable as the best in the sport’s history, even if Hamilton were to extend his lead.
“Michael is my hero,” four-time world champion Vettel said of his compatriot.
“I probably don’t want Lewis to win for that reason, but the truth is they’ve both had a strong season, they’re going into the last race with a chance to win the championship because they both deserve it.
“In a way I would be happy if Michael’s record still stands, but even if Lewis wins, Michael is still the best for me.
“Lewis can win one, two, three and five more championships, but it doesn’t change anything for me and I get on well with Lewis.
READ ALSOHamilton hails Schumacher after record-equaling win
“So my gut says I want Max to win just to keep the record alive, but my head is clear in terms of ‘let the best man win’.”
Fernando Alonso, also a multiple world champion, has selected Verstappen as the most deserving winner of an exciting 2021 season.