"Hamilton's the favorite, but Verstappen can be a huge challenger''

The title battle in 2020 will be between Lewis Hamilton and Max Verstappen according to many. Hamilton is the six-time world champion and remains the favourite, but according to Lawrence Barretto this is a the time for Verstappen to increase the pressure.

''From his debut he has made an impression in Formula 1 and has everything a champion needs. The first three races are for him and his team, so the question is whether Red Bull Racing and Honda are ready? If Verstappen can strike during those first three races, that will give him a lot of confidence", says the Barretto in his column for Formula1.com.

However, the journalist of Formula 1 recognizes that after that it can quickly turn in favor of Mercedes. ''The three races after that are normally more for Mercedes, so then the tide may turn again. In any case the pressure will be on and the momentum lies with Verstappen. If he can give that little bit extra, he can take advantage of any moment''.

The big question remains whether Red Bull has built a car that is fast enough. ''That's out of his control. Red Bull looked good in the tests and where Mercedes comes with updates, Red Bull also has a new package for Austria. Honda is also making huge progress since they have been working with Red Bull," said Barretto.

Hamilton is preparing for the seventh world title, but Barretto is especially looking forward to the fight between the two. ''If the updates from Red Bull work, it could be an important step for the team. Mercedes remains the favorite, but Verstappen is eager and experienced enough to pose a huge challenge'', concludes Barretto.