Verstappen: I'd have Hamilton's wins in a Mercedes

Max Verstappen says that he would be in line to be crowned Formula 1 champion rather than Lewis Hamilton, if he had access to machinery as potent as the Mercedes man. Verstappen spoke as Hamilton stood on the brink of securing a fifth world title at the United States Grand Prix.

Verstappen has been credited as a near-certain champion in waiting, and has taken four grand prix victories as he closes in on four full seasons no the grid.

Hamilton has racked up two world titles, with a third likely soon to come, as well as set new records for pole positions and closed to Michael Schumacher's F1 records in that time.

Although Verstappen concedes that the Briton is a great driver, he believes the dominance of the Silver Arrows has played the biggest role in Hamilton's ascent to near all-time great status.

"Of course he is super good, but Vettel can also win in such a car," Verstappen said.

"Daniel can win in such a car and I can win in such a car. If you have a good car, you can win that."

Hamilton will match the legendary Juan Manuel Fangio if he takes out a fifth world title, with only Schumacher on seven crows above him.

MORE: Verstappen gets United States GP grid penalty
MORE: Hamilton 'miles' better than Schumacher
MORE: Force India confirm timeframe for name change