Verstappen must win Formula 1 title in 2021: 'That's good for the sport'

Mark Webber, a former F1 driver who spent seven seasons with Red Bull Racing, admits he would like to see Max Verstappen win the world title. However, the Australian believes Lewis Hamilton will eventually run away with the title.

Formule1.nl spoke with him after the race in Monaco. "Max is not only popular in The Netherlands, he is popular all over the world," Webber said in the interview. "I would love to see Max win his first title. I think that would be very good for the sport."

Webber is cautious though, given that there are only a few races behind him. "It's still early in the season, but he already has a lot of points behind his name." According to the former driver, Hamilton will eventually win the title, even if he hopes for the Dutchman. "I have a bet with a friend that Hamilton will be champion with two races to go," he says. "It's very frustrating to see for some, but you have to acknowledge the greatness. Eight world titles, that's really extraordinary. Every now and then I do worry about the reliability of the Honda, but I'd be happy if they prove otherwise."

The race in Monaco

The Monaco Grand Prix may not be the most amazing track when it comes to overtaking, but Webber was still impressed with Verstappen. "As with all sports in the world, the very best make it look easy. The race was not a spectacle today. But for someone like Max to perform so well for 78 laps is very good for him mentally." The upcoming races will reveal whether Verstappen can maintain his lead in the championship.