Max Verstappen Told Ferrari a 'More Comfortable Fit' as Leclerc Admits Strange Stat

Max Verstappen has been advised that Ferrari would be "a more comfortable fit" than Mercedes if he decides to leave Red Bull in the future. The suggestion comes amid ongoing speculation about Verstappen's long-term plans, with both top teams keen to secure the reigning champion's services.

Why it matters:

Ferrari's potential to lure Verstappen could reshape the driver market and the competitive balance of F1 for years to come. With Mercedes also in the picture, the Scuderia's cultural and engineering environment is being pitched as a key advantage.

The details:

• Charles Leclerc called it "strange" to be Ferrari's second most experienced driver in history, reflecting the team's recent turnover and his own longevity at Maranello.
• Oscar Piastri voiced surprise at Red Bull's step forward in Miami, noting Verstappen's ability to fight Mercedes, Ferrari, and McLaren.
• Fernando Alonso described his "relief" after Honda's extensive testing at Sakura solved Aston Martin's persistent vibration issue.
• In WEC, the #20 BMW M Team WRT won the Six Hours of Spa-Francorchamps, the second round of the 2026 season.

Between the lines:

The advice to Verstappen underscores Ferrari's belief that their environment—passionate but often chaotic—could suit the Dutchman's direct style better than Mercedes' more structured approach. Meanwhile, Leclerc's admission highlights how Ferrari has cycled through drivers while he remains the constant.

The big picture:

On this day in 1993, Alain Prost, Ayrton Senna, and Michael Schumacher shared a podium for the first and only time at the Spanish Grand Prix. Their brief convergence remains a legendary moment in F1 history, a reminder of how eras can collide in a single race.