Verstappen praises Leclerc: 'He always does that very well'

Max Verstappen and Charles Leclerc have known each other for some time. The most famous moment between the two is a karting experience in 2012. When Verstappen is asked about it at the press conference in Australia, a smile appears on his face.

In 2022, the battle for the victories seems to be between the drivers from Ferrari and Red Bull Racing. During the first two races in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia, it was mainly between Leclerc and Verstappen, who each had a lead over their teammates. Verstappen hopes to continue that trend in Melbourne.

Verstappen versus Leclerc

Verstappen said at the press conference that he hopes to continue the fight like in Bahrain and Jeddah. When reminded of the earlier battle with Leclerc in 2012 he has to laugh. ''Then we were not the best of friends, but it was a long time ago. Now we can laugh about it. Sometimes in karting it was tough, but now that we are both in F1 and fighting for the win it is beautiful.''

The two have grown to respect each other more and more over the years, as evidenced by Verstappen's reaction when asked about Leclerc's strength by Sky Germany. ''He is always fast. He is very talented. Whether he's overtaking or defending, he always does it very well,'' the Dutchman concludes.