Otmar Szafnauer praises Max Verstappen's work ethic over Lewis Hamilton's
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 30, 2026, 1:01 PM
Last updated Jul 30, 2026

Former Formula 1 team principal Otmar Szafnauer compared the work ethics of Max Verstappen and Lewis Hamilton during a podcast discussion. Szafnauer stated that Verstappen is typically the first driver to arrive at the circuit, while Hamilton arrives later to ensure photographers capture his outfits. Szafnauer expressed that he can’t relate to Hamilton’s fashion style, though he acknowledged that Hamilton's approach works for him. The conversation sparked debate about the role of fashion in the sport and individual drivers' public personas.
- •Otmar Szafnauer discussed driver work ethics on the High Performance Podcast.
- •He claimed Max Verstappen always arrives first at race events.
- •Szafnauer suggested Lewis Hamilton times his arrival for photographers.
- •Hamilton's fashion choices drew mixed reactions from Szafnauer and the host.
- •The discussion reflects broader themes in F1 regarding image and professionalism.
- 1:01 PMYahoo Sports — 'Hamilton comes in only when all the photographers are there, so he can wear the ridiculous clothing'
"Former Formula 1 team principal Otmar Szafnauer has drawn a contrast between Lewis Hamilton and Max Verstappen, praising the Red Bull driver's work ethic while making a pointed comparison with the Ferrari star. Speaking on the High Performance Podcast, Szafnauer posed a rhetorical question about which Formula 1 driver is always the first to arrive at the circuit.
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