Herbert warns: Hamilton’s at peak of his powers
LEWIS HAMILTON’S Formula One rivals have been warned the defending champion is at the peak of his powers.
Hamilton has two records in his sights this year – to equal Michael Schumacher’s haul of seven world titles and usurp the German’s 91 race wins.
That quest for history got off to a stumbling start at last week’s Austrian Grand Prix but Hamilton has a chance to bounce back at the Styrian showdown at the same track tomorrow.
In fact, he’s made a winning start to his season just once in the last six years but has romped to five stunning titles in an unprecedented period of dominance for Mercedes.
Sky Sports F1 expert Johnny Herbert says Hamilton’s current set-up with the Mercedes is perfect for him to flourish – unlike Ferrari and their departing driver Sebastian Vettel.
Herbert said: “Mercedes have allowed Lewis to be free. He has no pressure on his shoulders. He goes out and does what he does.
“But Sebastian has the might of the Tifosi fans on his shoulders, he’s got his own media on his shoulders, Ferrari on his shoulders, then the pressures have never been relieved.
“That’s what Lewis has been given since he’s joined Mercedes. Freedom to do what he wants, as long as he does the job in the car.
“And my god he does that. I love what I see now. It excites me. I think we’re probably at the peak of Lewis. This is the peak.”