Speaking to DAZN Spain after the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, the two-time world champion was full of praise for the Dutchman, even though Verstappen ultimately came up short in the title fight against Lando Norris.

“We all know he’s on another level — the Spaniard said — he’s a generational talent, while the others are simply very good drivers.”

Verstappen had come close to pulling off a comeback for the ages, clawing back more than 100 points since Zandvoort and pushing McLaren all the way to the final round — only to miss out on the title by just two points.

Credit also goes to Lando Norris, who kept his cool despite spending the first half of the race in heavy traffic after his pit stop and even being overtaken by his teammate. In the end, though, a composed drive — aggressive when it needed to be — allowed him to bring it home in third, the result he needed to seal the title.

On the eve of the Abu Dhabi weekend, the Dutchman had made a few comments that split opinion in the paddock, claiming the championship would’ve been wrapped up much earlier if he’d been the one driving the McLaren.

Verstappen ultimately ended the season with the most wins and pole positions, even if he fell short of the main target — a fifth world title.

Naturally, the question was put to the Spanish champion as well, and he gave his take on the matter.