Top of Formula 1 still intact: 'Lewis and Max are both out of this world'

Max Verstappen hopes to finally compete for the world title with Red Bull Racing in 2021, and according to former Red Bull driver, Mark Webber, that's quite possible. Only then will we really see if the Dutchman is a match for Lewis Hamilton.

In recent years Red Bull Racing has been lagging behind. Since the hybrid era, Mercedes has been the team to beat, and so far no one has been able to actually beat them. In 2021 Red Bull Racing is the big rival for Mercedes, but will they really come close?

Chance for Verstappen

''Red Bull never shies away from a challenge and they ended last year on a fantastic note with Max's victory in Abu Dhabi. Mercedes of course has it super for each other. Great car, great engine and with Lewis a great driver. But the rules are largely the same as last year. This is the best opportunity ever for Red Bull in the current era. And therefore also for Max'', says the Australian to De Telegraaf. According to him Verstappen doesn't have much of a choice.

''We know he has no other choice at the moment. At Red Bull he has to do it. He's the man there. There is no seat at Mercedes, until Lewis stops. Max is still at the beginning of his career, but he's got so much experience. What Max has achieved so far is phenomenal. It would be great if he and Lewis drove for the same team, but that's not going to happen. That's why I hope Red Bull has the car to go for the title this year. That would be top, for everyone.''

Future of F1

Webber says it himself. Verstappen and Hamilton in one team is probably not going to happen, but what if...? ''Max is on the level of Lewis. How that will be in 23 races we don't know yet. Lewis very often makes the right decisions at the right time. Okay, that's easier with the best car too, but you also have to appreciate his absolute class. Lewis and Max are both out of this world. Lewis is writing the final chapters of his career. Maybe he'll quit after this season, though I doubt it. After that, it will be between Max and Charles Leclerc. As far as the future is concerned, we are in good hands,'' Webber concludes.