Statistics are most often used, as in the case in question, to justify an opinion not as a tool to exact a truth. Bare numbers, as in the case of statistics can never tell the complete story. Much depends on the background and external factors behind those numbers which are either difficult, not economic or just impossible, to ascertain mathematically. The qualitative aspect of any data has to have at least equal weight to the numerical data in order to extrapolate any meaningful assumptions.
The simple statistical measure of Verstappen winning/leading more races than Hamilton, and gaining more points this season does not prove that this season Verstappen was the best driver. The quoted numbers take no account of the times Verstappen was seen to be guilty of, at best poor, probably dangerous antics behind the wheel, and did not receive appropriate punishment. Previous incidents of the sort of driving they actually found Verstappen guilty of had resulted in black flag disqualification and loss of points.
The 'statistics' quoted take no note of the fact that both drivers were level on points going into the final race, nor that Hamilton was over 20 seconds ahead when the safety car was employed, nor that the official original and correct decision, would have meant a win for Hamilton. Yet again they altered the decision and ruled to give Verstappen an advantage, but still one in which it was a probability that Hamilton might win. Then it was arranged for only certain of the lapped cars to unlap themselves. An occurrence never before allowed, and against a written part of the rules. This ensured that Verstappen would not have to overtake cars Hamilton had already passed, this time giving Verstappen a virtually unassailable advantage. Best driver -without official assistance? - I think not
The statistics quoted do not tell any of the truth behind the events and can therefore only be judged in this instance as lies. Just one example of statistics masking the truth. Statistics never tell the whole truth and are subject to manipulation, and it has become the expected norm for this manipulation to take place. Because of this, unless backed by qualitative evidence statistics cannot be believed. Something that cannot be believed because it is usually untrue is a lie.
