'Ferrari should have signed Verstappen'

Ferrari have made a mistake in not signing Max Verstappen, according to former Renault boss, Flavio Briatore.

The young Dutchman is considered to be one of the most promising Formula 1 driving prospects in recent years and became the youngest ever Grand Prix winner in 2016 when he claimed the chequered flag at the Spain GP.

Verstappen recently signed a new contract with Red Bull while Ferrari opted to retain veteran driver Kimi Raikkonen for the 2018 season - a decision which Briatore believes is a mistake.

"With Raikkonen you will never win the constructors' title," the 67-year-old Rai Radio.

"To win you need two good drivers, and Ferrari does not have that.

"I would sign Verstappen with my eyes closed. He is the only real driver that people want to see - a gladiator that they do everything to penalise in every race."

This season overall belonged to Lewis Hamilton as the Englishman claimed 2018 F1 championship in Mexico with two GPs to spare, whilst also putting in a heroic effort in the Brazil GP when he made up 16 places to finish fourth after starting in the pitlane.

As well as criticising Ferrari for not recruiting Verstappen, Briatore did reserve some praise for Hamilton's year, suggesting he was now more focused on his career than his celebrity status.

He added: "This year he was more motivated on the track than in the disco."