Webber gives Verstappen an advice: 'Be prepared to fight all season'

After two intense rounds of the championship so far, it can be concluded that an exciting battle will take place between Lewis Hamilton and Max Verstappen this season. The reigning world champion will have a tough job with the Dutchman, who seems to be driving the fastest car, the one of Red Bull Racing. Mark Webber, a former Red Bull driver, expects fireworks between the two competitors this season.

"I do think Hamilton has helped Mercedes in the first two races. The car is not easy, but Lewis has managed to get results which means he now leads the championship. But then he does have a tricky rival in Verstappen," the Australian explained in conversation with Marca. Webber sees that Verstappen has grown tremendously in his role at Red Bull over the past year.

Crash between Verstappen and Hamilton this season?

"We are all fans of his style, if you look at his races it is really spectacular and exactly what you ask from an F1 driver. They are two gladiators and that is what the sport needs, such intense competition". The intense battle between Hamilton and Verstappen may not always be fought out cleanly, and Webber expects there to be some debris in the duels between the two this season.

"At the climax there will be fireworks too, I'm sure. At the moment they still go well together and have respect, but during the season.... Hamilton is looking forward into the season and against him you really have to be prepared to put up the whole fight," Webber concluded.