Patrese: Only Leclerc Can Challenge Verstappen in Equal Car

Former Formula 1 driver Riccardo Patrese has declared that only one driver on the current grid could truly compete with Max Verstappen if given identical machinery, and it is not the newly crowned world champion, Lando Norris. The Italian veteran points to Ferrari's Charles Leclerc as the sole contender capable of matching the "absolute phenomenon."

Why it matters:

This perspective highlights the enduring debate about pure driver talent versus championship results. Despite Norris securing his first title and ending Verstappen's four-year reign, Patrese's assessment suggests raw speed and one-lap prowess, as demonstrated by Leclerc, remain the ultimate benchmark for some in the sport. It also underscores the high regard in which Leclerc is held, even during a winless season for Ferrari.

The details:

• Patrese made his comments via Quotidiano Nazionale, expressing no surprise that his pick was Leclerc, whom he affectionately calls 'Carletto'.
• He bases his view on Leclerc's consistent qualifying excellence and his performance relative to seven-time champion Lewis Hamilton in the standings throughout the season.
• The context is significant: Ferrari failed to win a Grand Prix in 2025, with Hamilton's Sprint victory in China being the team's only triumph, yet Leclerc secured seven podium finishes.
• This evaluation comes as Leclerc plans a unique off-season trip to Antarctica to recharge before the major 2026 regulation changes.

The big picture:

Patrese's comments feed into the narrative of 'uncrowned' speed kings. While Norris has the championship trophy, debates about the fastest driver in equal equipment often center on Leclerc and Verstappen. This opinion from a seasoned former driver adds weight to Leclerc's reputation as a generational talent whose ultimate potential remains tied to Ferrari's ability to provide a championship-contending car. The 2026 reset offers the next major opportunity for that potential to be fully realized.