Max Verstappen and Charles Leclerc are 'fundamentally different', says Gerhard Berger

Gerhard Berger

Verstappen and Leclerc are 'fundamentally different'

Gerhard Berger contrasts the two young superstars.

Martin Macdonald

Sunday 26 January 2020 10:00

Former F1 driver Gerhard Berger believes that Max Verstappen and Charles Leclerc are equals when it comes to talent, but believes they are “fundamentally different” in how they approach their careers.

The two drivers are predicted to be the next generation of superstars who will fight for championships, taking the sport into the next decade.

They have competed against each other throughout their careers in the junior ranks and then into F1, with Verstappen enjoying success with Red Bull and Leclerc joining Ferrari for his maiden season with the Scuderia in 2019.

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Despite their similarities in terms of talent and age, Berger has highlighted the differences that make them unique personalities.

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“The two are fundamentally different. Verstappen is more aggressive and unpredictable,” he told Auto Motor und Sport.

“He is completely apolitical, says what he thinks, and loud enough for everyone to hear. He drives the same way.

“Leclerc gives the impression that he is the calmer and more considerate driver. I see more calculation, more politics.

“As I said, a completely different approach, but on the same level in terms of ability.”

Ahead of the 2020 campaign, both drivers signed new deals with Red Bull and Ferrari respectively.

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