What deserves more weight in judging a champion: adaptability, dominance or opposition?
Different champions built their records under very different competitive circumstances.
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Different champions built their records under very different competitive circumstances.
George Russell lost his 2024 Belgian Grand Prix victory after his Mercedes was found 1.5 kilograms underweight.
A memorable finish can hide luck, attrition, strategy or a quieter drive that was actually stronger.
Timing, championship stakes, prior agreements and the drivers’ relative pace can all change the judgement.
A short, brilliant peak and a long, adaptable career reward very different qualities.
The answer changes with budget, championship position, technical stability and the quality of available alternatives.