Verstappen backs Leclerc to win a race in 2019

Max Verstappen has backed Charles Leclerc to win his first Formula 1 race at some point this season, after the Dutchman stole victory from the Ferrari driver right at the end of the Austrian Grand Prix on Sunday.

Leclerc led effectively the whole race, after being quickest in qualifying, only for Verstappen to overtake him rather controversially with just a few laps of the race remaining.

Verstappen won Red Bull's home race in Austria for a second consecutive season, and has backed his rival to win a race at some point this season.

"We're good, we're good. Already after the stewards we were good," Verstappen said to Channel 4 on the feeling between him and Leclerc after the intense battle on track.

"We are racing drivers. I've known Charles for a long time and he will for sure this year take his first victory as well. You have to accept it. Of course, it's disappointing to lose your first victory in the last few laps.

"I've lost out on pole positions which were very painful. Last year, for example, my Monaco weekend was horrible. Those things happen in sport and, like I said, Charles is a great driver and he will come very far. I think we have another 15-20 years racing together!"