Alonso: Hamilton one of the greats

Alonso: Hamilton one of the greats

Originally written by Joas van Wingerden. This version is a translation.

Friday 10 November 2017 15:00

Fernando Alonso has added his name to the list of admirers of Lewis Hamilton, recognising the Englishman as one of the best in the business in the wake of his fourth world championship crown.

The Spaniard was quick to point out that he was more impressed by Hamilton's previous performances in lesser cars rather than sweeping away the competition with Mercedes.

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"Lewis is one of the greatest drivers in our sport and he showed that, especially in the McLaren times when they were struggling," Alonso said ahead of the Brazilian Grand Prix at Interlagos.

"For example, in 2009 that car wasn't very good and he was still winning races. Those kinds of performances put him at a very high level.”

Alonso, however, also feels that the most recent championships have come too easily for Hamilton and that other drivers must step up and become championship competitors, namely Valtteri Bottas, also of Mercedes.

"[In] The last three championships the Mercedes has been the dominant car so they were a little bit easier, but he deserves the success that he is having now because he showed that talent many, many times,” he added.

"Last year Rosberg deserved the championship probably and this year Valtteri [Bottas] was a little bit less competition so he was a very well-deserved champion.

"Definitely you need the car, but I think Lewis deserves his success."