Alfa Romeo Racing‘s test and reserve driver, Robert Kubica, believes that Red Bull Racing‘s Max Verstappen will win his first title before Scuderia Ferrari‘s Charles Leclerc.
Nonetheless, the Pole has a lot of respect for the youngsters, racing against both on them last year following his return to Formula 1 with Williams Racing.
“I think Max is very intelligent and is ready to win a World Championship,” said the Pole, speaking to Corriere della Sera. “It remains to be seen how he will behave fighting for a title, but I would bet on Verstappen being world champion first.
“Leclerc could have won his second race for Ferrari in Bahrain. Anyone who has been surprised by his performances means that they understand little about the drivers.
“It was normal that someone like Charles caused problems for [Sebastian] Vettel.”
Lerclerc appears to agree with Kubica’s views on his abilities, as he gets ready to embark on his third season in the sport, compared to Verstappen’s sixth.
“If I think about becoming world champion? I don’t know what to expect, I’ve never been one,” said Leclerc, speaking to Sky Italia.
“But I have to work, there’s still a long way to go.
“I’m happy with the growth I’ve had so far but there’s still so much to do. I hope to succeed someday, but I’m still far away.”
