Photo: Race Pictures

F1 Today | Competitor praises Verstappen, Dutchman flies to Germany!

22:02, 25 Sep

byKada Sarkozi

Charles Leclerc comments on Max Verstappen's title chances, as the Dutchman arrives in Germany. Catch up with the best news of the day with GPblog!

Photo: Race Pictures

Leclerc comments on Verstappen's chances of winning the title

Thanks to his second victory in a row, defending champion Max Verstappen is now 69 points behind Oscar Piastri in the drivers' standings.

While Ferrari driver Charles Leclerc acknowledges Verstappen’s strong form, he doesn’t expect the Dutchman to claim his fifth Formula 1 title.

"I think Max is not leaving anything on the table, that's for sure. I think they've done a big step forward with the car and they are now at a very strong level as well.

"I think it's very close between McLaren and Red Bull, but Max is doing a better job at the moment, and congratulations to him.

"I'll be very surprised if Verstappen wins the title. I think Oscar [Piastri] or Lando [Norris] have got it this year," the Monegasque driver said.

Verstappen arrives to Germany

This evening, Max Verstappen's private jet has landed in Germany. The Dutchman arrived in North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany, the closest private airport to the Nordschleife track.

After obtaining his DMSB Permit Nordschleife two weekends ago, the Dutchman will make his GT3 debut in the Nürburgring Langstrecken-Serie on Saturday.

Massa seeks $82 million

Felipe Massa is taking legal action against the FIA, Formula One Management, and Bernie Ecclestone over the 'Crashgate' scandal.

The Brazilian is set to travel to London next month for the hearing at the High Court.

“Accountability is key to preventing future fraud," the former Ferrari driver said in an interview with The Times.

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“Those entrusted with protecting the sport directly violated their duties, and they cannot be allowed to benefit from concealing their own misconduct.

“Such conduct is unacceptable in any sphere of life, especially in a sport followed by millions, including children.

“We will pursue this to the very end in order to achieve a just and fair outcome — for myself, for motorsport in Brazil, and for the sport as a whole.”

Bernie Ecclestone also reacted to the case, dismissing cover-up claims.

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