Leclerc asked whether F1 is entering the Verstappen era: "I hope not"

Charles Leclerc promises to do all he can to make sure Formula 1 doesn't head into a Max Verstappen dominant era similar to Lewis Hamilton's reign throughout most of the last 10 years. Verstappen has won the last two World Championships, with Red Bull claiming victory in the Constructors' Championship during Sunday's United States Grand Prix. 

Verstappen era 

Leclerc battled hard in the United States Grand Prix. He had a cheap pit stop thanks to a safety car period aiding his journey back up the grid. As a result of Verstappen's slow pitstop, Leclerc had a chance to duel with the World Champion. Leclerc lost out to Verstappen but promises to do all he can to stop him in the future. 

"I hope not," Leclerc said during the press conference when he was asked whether Formula 1 is entering the Verstappen era. "I'll do everything for it to not happen," he continued." 

"We are working as a team for it not to happen. It is very clear to us what we need to improve. We are trying to use the last few races in the best way possible, in order to challenge Max and Red Bull for the championship next year. I am confident we can do that because I know how hard we are working. I am confident that we are working in the right direction."

Ferrari are around 50 points ahead of Mercedes in the battle for second place in the Constructors' Championship. With three races to go, it seems likely that Ferrari will hold onto that position which would be their best finish since 2019.