While Gerhard Berger admires the work done by Charles Leclerc at Ferrari this season, the former Formula 1 driver believes that Max Verstappen remains the favorite for the world title this year.
The Dutchman is 38 points ahead of the Monegasque as we have just passed the midpoint of the season, in particular because he took advantage of the setbacks of the Scuderia in terms of reliability. But it is thanks to his level displayed in the race that the defending champion is favorite to his own succession according to the Austrian.
“Leclerc impressed me with his talent and his speed over one lap in qualifying, he is doing very, very well,” said Berger for the F1 Nation podcast.
“But in terms of race speed, I see a small advantage for Max. He’s brilliant throughout a race, using every opportunity that comes his way. He’s very strong on overtakes, wheel versus wheel wheel and in his reading of the race. Combine that with Red Bull’s excellent strategy and pit stops and you have an unbeatable package.”
“I think Verstappen is better than last year. Winning a championship takes a lot of the pressure off you. Leclerc made one or two mistakes this year, which shouldn’t happen when you’re fighting for the championship.”
“At Imola he spun when he should have taken the points for third place. It’s in those moments that Hamilton impresses me the most: Lewis is still there and an opportunity arises, he will finish on the podium and take the points that go with it.”
“Leclerc needs a bit more experience in those areas, but overall he’s a driver capable of winning championships.”
