The world champion, speaking before this weekend’s Emilia Romagna Grand Prix at Imola, described his previous battles with Vettel as draining. In 2017 and 2018 Hamilton and Vettel, who was then driving for Ferrari, were in a closely fought contest for the championship. In both years Ferrari enjoyed a quicker car for at least half the season during which Vettel enjoyed an early lead on points, but Mercedes and Hamilton turned it around and ultimately won the championships. “Mine and Seb’s battle were my favourite so far,” Hamilton said. Hamilton is attempting to secure a record eighth drivers’ championship this year. “It’s different now if I am racing with Max, he doesn’t have the background that Seb has but he has the chance to be a future champion,” Hamilton said.

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