Ferrari team boss predicts Hamilton will win battle with Verstappen

Ferrari have a particularly young line-up this year with Carlos Sainz and Charles Leclerc, but a high-performing one. The Spaniard has proven to be a formidable opponent for the young Monegasque, according to Mattia Binotto. The team boss also gives his prediction for the world title.

Ferrari is not yet back where it belongs in 2021, but with a shared third place with McLaren, the Italian team is at least closer to the top than it was in 2020. This is partly due to the drivers, as Sainz is a driver who is very close to, and sometimes even ahead of, Leclerc.

Best duo at Ferrari

''I am convinced that with Leclerc and Sainz we have the best driver duo in Formula 1. They are talented, fast, young and a guarantee for the future. We know Charles. He grew up with us, and without the incident in Monte Carlo and the bad luck at the start in Hungary he would have had a victory and a podium behind his name'', Binotto said at La Gazzetta dello Sport.

''Carlos has not surprised me. Before we took him we analysed his character. He is confident, brings in points for the team and is very strong in communication with his engineers. He is integrated within the team and understands his car better and better. In the second half of the season I expect him to be able to pull off a perfect weekend, with no mistakes in qualifying or at the start of the race.''

Cheering for Verstappen

Ferrari, however, with the budget they have at their disposal each year, should of course be fighting for the world title every year. However, that will not be the case in 2021. The title fight in 2021 will be between Mercedes and Red Bull Racing, and among the drivers between Lewis Hamilton and Max Verstappen.

''It's an interesting challenge between two great drivers, and I hope they will fight to the end. If I had to bet, I would bet on Lewis, because I think Mercedes will win it at the end. However, I also applaud Max. It would be good for the sport if the status quo is broken'', the Ferrari team boss concludes.