Patrese: Leclerc is the only driver who can compete with Verstappen
Ex-F1 driver Riccardo Patrese claims Charles Leclerc is the only current driver with the raw talent to challenge Max Verstappen in equal cars, arguing Ferrari's lack of a competitive machine—not Leclerc's skill—is what has prevented a title fight.
Former Formula 1 driver Riccardo Patrese has declared Ferrari's Charles Leclerc as the sole driver on the current grid capable of competing with Max Verstappen in equal machinery, placing him above even the new world champion, Lando Norris.
Why it matters:
This assessment cuts to the heart of the perennial debate about driver talent versus machinery in F1. While Norris has proven his championship mettle by winning the 2025 title, Patrese's claim suggests that raw, head-to-head speed against the benchmark of Verstappen is a different metric—one where he believes only Leclerc qualifies. It also underscores the immense pressure and expectation on Ferrari to finally deliver a car worthy of their lead driver's potential.
The details:
In a conversation with Italian journalist Leo Turrini, the 71-year-old former racer was unequivocal in his praise for Leclerc. "Even if the new champion is called Norris," Patrese stated, "the only driver out there who could compete with Verstappen, who is an absolute phenomenon, is Carletto [Leclerc]." He attributes Leclerc's lack of a title challenge not to the driver, but to his team, arguing Leclerc has "never had the right car" during his seven-year stint at Maranello. Patrese also pointed to Leclerc's occasional errors as a product of his "tremendous desire" and frustration with the situation.
The big picture:
Leclerc's career has been defined by flashes of brilliance in often uncompetitive cars. His runner-up finish in 2022 was a distant 146 points behind Verstappen, and his other podium season finish was third in 2024. Meanwhile, the competitive landscape has shifted dramatically from Mercedes' dominance to Red Bull's reign and now McLaren's 2025 championship win. Patrese's comments highlight that, despite these changes at the top, the consensus on Verstappen's elite status remains, and the search for his true peer continues.
What's next:
The spotlight now intensifies on Ferrari's project for the 2026 regulatory overhaul. For Patrese's assertion to be proven, the Scuderia must provide Leclerc with a championship-contending car. The Italian also commented on Lewis Hamilton's prospects, convinced the seven-time champion could fight for a record eighth title if given the right equipment, a nod to the unresolved legacy of the 2021 Abu Dhabi finale. The coming years will test these theories, determining whether Leclerc can transition from a driver of perceived potential to a genuine, consistent challenger to the sport's best.