Leclerc questions whether Verstappen can close the gap to the McLarens.
"I don’t believe Red Bull will have a triumphant run again."
24 September 2025 - 11:11
Charles Leclerc has dampened speculation that Max Verstappen is in the running for a fifth straight world championship, despite the two recently exchanging compliments about each other’s performances.
"I’m confident that Max is not holding back," the Ferrari driver remarked after the Baku race, where Red Bull's revival resulted in Verstappen's pole-and-win repeat from Monza.
"They have unquestionably progressed with the car and are now performing at a very high standard," Leclerc stated. "It’s tight between McLaren and Red Bull, and I think Max is currently doing an excellent job. So, kudos to him.
"McLaren hasn’t been strong the last two weekends, but I don't anticipate Red Bull will once again dominate."
Even with Verstappen's consecutive victories at Monza and Baku, he is still 69 points behind championship leader Oscar Piastri and 44 behind Lando Norris.
Thus, Leclerc is skeptical that the Dutch driver can bridge the gap. "I would be surprised if Max becomes champion. This year, it will likely be either Oscar or Lando," he noted.
Outside the title battle, Leclerc shared his thoughts on Liberty Media's initiative for more sprint weekends and other layout changes. "We haven't discussed it much yet," he said. "In my view, the number of sprint weekends we currently have is adequate.
"I wouldn’t particularly desire more," the Monegasque added.
Regarding the concept of reverse grids, he was even more definitive. "I'm not sure, at least not for a regular weekend. You could consider it for sprints, but it shouldn’t be part of Formula 1’s core identity."
On the topic of shorter grands prix, Leclerc asserted: "I don’t think there’s a need to reinvent anything."
Conversely, teammate Lewis Hamilton offered a slightly different view. "I enjoy sprint weekends," said the seven-time world champion.
"Years ago, I voiced my concerns about the repetitive weekend structure. We made some adjustments, and I think sprints are quite enjoyable," he told reporters.
"These weekends carry a more intense schedule due to fewer practice sessions. Fans also appreciate this format. From an entertainment perspective, there are events where having sprint races would be fantastic."
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