'Max and Schumacher have one thing in common: they had the best team'

Jean Todt sees many similar traits in Max Verstappen and Michael Schumacher, but finds it difficult to really compare them. Speaking to Corriere dello Sport the former FIA president discusses the qualities of both champions.

Todt was Schumacher's team boss from 2000 to 2006, during the period when Schumacher and Ferrari won a total of 10 titles. From that position, he was asked if he sees in Verstappen as a logical successor to Schumacher.

"He is fast, he makes few mistakes. He is a fighter, just like Michael," Todt analysed. "But on a personal level, I don't know Max well enough to judge him. Michael could appear a bit cocky and obnoxious when he raced, but it was an attitude that served to hide his embarrassment. He was humble, doubted himself a lot. He never blamed the team. I don't make comparisons, but he and Max have one point in common: they had the best team, and that helps."

"Leclerc could do what Verstappen is doing"

Verstappen does not seem to be getting any real challenge this year. After three races, the Dutchman already has more points than the next best team: Verstappen is on 69 points, Aston Martin on 65. Last season, Verstappen had a title rival in Charles Leclerc, but the Monegasque is currently only in tenth place with six points. Still, Todt was asked if he thinks Leclerc could perform the same as Verstappen if he were in a better team. "Definitely. In F1, you have good drivers, and then a very small group of very good drivers. Leclerc is part of the latter group."