During the qualifying session of the 2025 Austrian Grand Prix in Spielberg, Lewis Hamilton took a pointed jab at Max Verstappen after securing a stronger grid position. Hamilton, driving for Ferrari, qualified fourth, while Verstappen of Red Bull dropped to seventh, sparking reactions from F1 fans. The British driver’s comments came amid his improved performance following upgrades to the SF-25.

Hamilton had faced challenges during Friday’s practice sessions, struggling to find pace with Ferrari’s updated car. Nevertheless, overnight adjustments helped both him and teammate Charles Leclerc rebound significantly, with Leclerc clinching second place on the grid. Hamilton’s qualifying result marked a notable upswing for the team after initial difficulties.

Hamilton comments on race prospects and his rivalry with Verstappen

In his post-qualifying interview, Hamilton was asked about his expectations for the main race’s final position. His reply touched on Verstappen’s absence from the top spots, signaling confidence in his own prospects:

“I mean, Max isn’t up there. I won’t be bumping into anybody, that’s for sure.”

Fans quickly engaged with Hamilton’s remark on social media platform X. One follower suggested Verstappen’s focus might still be clouded by past rivalries, saying:

“I’m not even mad, Max has been living rent-free in his head since 2021, and he keeps confirming it with these unprovoked comments.”

Additional reactions varied, with some supporters defending Hamilton’s attitude and others doubting his chances, such as:

“And won’t be winning either. Lol.”

“Winners focus on winning. Losers focus on winners,” said a fan.

“Max Will overtake this bum easily tomorrow,” wrote a fan.

“He really can’t forget max, I understand you Lewis that’s how the head of a fan works,” claimed another.

So far this season, Hamilton has yet to reach the podium in any main race but has earned consecutive podium finishes in Sprint events, including a win in China, demonstrating his potential to recover.

Insights into Hamilton’s qualifying performance and team upgrades

Reflecting on his qualifying performance, Hamilton described the results as encouraging for Ferrari, highlighting the progress made through factory developments. Both he and Leclerc benefited from a new floor component introduced for the weekend, contributing to their starting positions near the front.

Speaking with Sky Sports, Hamilton said:

“It’s a fantastic result. The team have worked really hard back at the factory to bring us a new floor this weekend. Considering yesterday, we were a lot further off, for us to be much closer and on the second row is really fantastic. And for Charles on the front row, too. My last lap wasn’t perfect.

“I think if I’d finished it, I would have been second, so there are lots of positives to take out from that session. Just timings, the information we’re getting in terms of traffic and positioning on track, I think was really the best and proper world-class, so that’s what we’ve been working towards.”

Hamilton’s last podium finish in Austria came in 2022, when he rose to third place after Carlos Sainz retired late in the race. This year’s qualifying result hints at a possible breakthrough, especially with Ferrari’s recent upgrades showing effectiveness on the Spielberg circuit.

Implications for race day and the championship battle

Hamilton’s confident remarks and strong qualifying position add intrigue to Sunday’s Austrian GP. With Verstappen’s uncharacteristically lower grid spot and Ferrari’s improved pace, the race could see a shift in momentum. Hamilton appears determined to capitalize on these changes, aiming to return to the podium in the main event.

Given the significance of each race in the ongoing championship, Hamilton’s ability to convert qualifying speed into race results will be closely watched. Fans and analysts alike will be eager to see if the British driver can leverage his upgraded SF-25 and renewed form to challenge Verstappen and impact the title race as the season moves forward.