Formula 1: Hamilton Hopes Red Bull Doesn't Discard Albon Like They Did Others

Lewis Hamilton claimed he hoped Red Bull is good to upcoming star Alex Albon as he has a bright future in the sport.

Hamilton said this following the duo’s battle in the recently ended Mexican Grand Prix.

Skeptics of the Thai driver claimed that his promotion was due to higher ups in Red Bull forcing their agenda. However, the youngster has proven his mettle in the recent races and has managed to go head to head with experienced teammate Max Verstappen.

Albon graduated from Formula 2 and was given a seat at Torro Rosso, which functions as a prelude to Red Bull for great drivers.

He replaced an ailing Pierre Gasly and paired up with Verstappen from Spa.

The team saw it was a chance to evaluate their crop of drivers before making a decision for the next season; however, they have made it a bit clear they are leaning towards Albon.

The 23-year-old has been able to score in every one of his six races this season for the team. His best result thus far was fourth at the Japanese Grand Prix.

Even though one race later he blotted the copybook with a crash in the second practice session in Mexico, he still managed fifth on the material day. He was even able to jump ahead of Hamilton during the first laps.

During the FIA conference, Hamilton claimed he did not really remember much about the early laps. He did note Albon must have been ahead of him for some time and then he pitted. He did say the Thai driver was not making any mistakes.

Albon’s two-stop strategy bowed to the one-stop approach which led to Hamilton’s win. After racing in close quarters for the first time, Hamilton claimed he was impressed with how well Albon had done in his first year, especially against the likes of Verstappen.

He described Verstappen as a driver who many have looked up to and have placed on a pedestal. Albon on the other hand was described as someone who has been able to face adversities.

Hamilton concluded by saying he hopes Red Bull gives him the due support over the years. He then bashed the team claiming he mentioned it because Red Bull have a tendency to discard drivers as soon as they don’t perform.

Christian Horner, the team principal has been singing Albon’s praises though saying he has impressed the team and is continuing to improve. He had scored more points than Verstappen since the summer break and that is something no one expected.