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Max Verstappen Reveals Which F1 Driver Impresses Him Most

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Samriddhi Jaiswal | Last updated Sep 11, 2025 4:35 AM ET

Max Verstappen has rarely been one to hand out compliments to his rivals, but the reigning World Champion has admitted that one driver in particular continues to impress him on track, Charles Leclerc.

Verstappen on Leclerc’s Skill

Speaking about who he considers the strongest in specific race situations, Verstappen singled out the Ferrari star.

“I have always considered Charles Leclerc a very good driver in qualifying,” Verstappen said. “He is also good at overtaking.”

That’s notable considering George Russell has often been nicknamed “Mr. Saturday” for his consistency in qualifying performances, especially during his Williams years.

Verstappen, however, still points to Leclerc as the standout when it comes to one-lap pace, showing the level of respect he has for the Monegasque driver.

The comment reflects the long-running respect between the two drivers, who first battled each other in karting before their paths crossed again at the very top of F1.

While Verstappen has gone on to dominate recent seasons, Leclerc has earned a reputation as one of the fastest one-lap specialists on the grid.

A Rivalry Built on Mutual Respect

The Verstappen-Leclerc rivalry has given fans some of the sport’s most thrilling duels, from Austria 2019 to Bahrain 2022.

Despite fierce on-track fights, both drivers have consistently spoken of each other with admiration.

max about the driver who’s best qualifying & overtaking: “i have always considered charles leclerc a very good driver in qualifying. he is also good at overtaking.”

[mundo deportivo] pic.twitter.com/otXihUiNfG
— nini (@SCUDERIAFEMBOY) September 10, 2025