Mark Webber feels pundits have been "pretty harsh" lately on Lewis Hamilton and warns that the seven-time world champion is at his most dangerous "when his back is against wall".
Hamilton kicked off his 2022 campaign with a podium in Bahrain. But since, the Briton's performances have been weighed down by the chronic aerodynamic issues impacting Mercedes' new-generation car.
However, Hamilton's 21-point deficit relative to teammate George Russell in F1's Drivers' standings has led to views that Mercedes' star driver is being outclassed by the former, as was the case at Imola last time out where Russell finished fourth while Hamilton crossed the checkered flag a lowly P13.
But Webber argues that a look at the circumstances that prevailed in several races provide a different view on Hamilton's relative performance and his track record year-to-date.
"I think people are being pretty harsh, pretty fast on Lewis," said the former Red Bull driver, quoted by the Daily Mail.
"In Bahrain he drove brilliantly to third place. In Saudi there was a Safety Car involved there with a pit stop. Same in Melbourne.
"So I think there have been quite a few points he’s missed through no fault of his own.
"It’s only Imola where he had a tricky qualifying and race. Of course, everyone’s forgetting how the other points were lost through no fault of his own."
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Webber also argues that when the going gets tough, that's precisely when Mercedes and Hamilton should not be discarded.
"Never, ever underestimate an organisation like those guys. It’s going to be fascinating to see how the next few weeks go.
"Lewis is at his most dangerous with his back against the wall. He’s never short of motivation – that’s why he’s probably the greatest of all time."
While defending Hamilton from the whims of judgement, Webber highlighted Russell's impressive performance alongside the most successful driver in F1's history.
"George is driving brilliantly – very, very good for him – and it’s good to have the youngsters threatening the established drivers," said webber.
"That’s what it should be about – Lewis would never shy away from that."
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