Verstappen gets respect from rival: 'I don't begrudge him this milestone'

Max Verstappen has had a brilliant season with two Grands Prix to go, according to Carlos Sainz. The Spaniard had hoped to compete alongside Verstappen for the world title in 2022 but had to drop out at an early stage.

At the start of the season, the Italian formation looked to be a serious opponent for Red Bull Racing. While Charles Leclerc managed to compete for wins, however, Sainz did not manage to reach his level.

Speaking to the NOS the driver admits. "I could have made it harder for Max, especially in the first races. Our car was very good then, but I didn't feel completely comfortable behind the wheel then," he reveals.

Sainz challenges Verstappen for new season

From the GP of France, which was on the calendar at the end of July, there was no stopping the Ferrari drivers. Verstappen strung the wins together and since then failed to win only in Singapore. Although Sainz has a lot of respect for his former teammate, he is determined to do better in 2023.

"It's very unfortunate that Charles and I didn't get to fight with Max more as Red Bull Racing became more and more dominant, but I don't begrudge him this milestone. He put in an unprecedented season. Next season we're going to put the heat on him."