Verstappen a champion in the making - Hamilton

Max Verstappen is a Formula 1 champion in the making, according to Mercedes star and current drivers' ruler Lewis Hamilton. The Dutchman has thrilled F1 since his debut in 2015 and is plotting another assault on the Silver Arrows and Ferrari in 2018.

Verstappen's thrilling overtakes and on-track bravery have propelled him to superstardom in quick time.

Hamilton secured his fourth world title in 2017 and will be pitched in a battle with Sebastian Vettel this year as both aim for crown number five.

Red Bull's chances seem likely to depend on the pace of the Renault engine, but Hamilton believes Verstappen's talents are not in doubt.

"He has definitely got the potential to be a world champion. We've all seen that," Hamilton said. "That's why he's got a great following.

"We've seen the way he drives and he's got great potential as a driver. He's in a great team and he's in the perfect place to continue growing. He's got a long time ahead of him.

"He's already had a good few seasons under his belt - I still hadn't even had my first season under my belt at 21, so he's already further ahead than me and a lot of the drivers.

"But whilst I'm here I'm going to be doing everything I can to stop him from winning. I'm sure people won't particularly love that, but that's what we're here to do.

"We're here to battle and I'm looking forward to having some really positive battles with him - hopefully this year."

Hamilton also expects to come under renewed pressure from team-mate Valtteri Bottas in 2018.

Lots of laps, plenty of snaps ???? on day four of testing!

GALLERY ???? https://t.co/KExWri3rGp #DrivenByEachOther #F1 pic.twitter.com/ZCJe0IMrm5 — Mercedes-AMG F1 (@MercedesAMGF1) March 1, 2018

The Finn was left to count the cost of a mid-season slump last year, but having ended the campaign in form, Hamilton knows he has his work cut out to retain his title.

"Last year it was difficult for him, he was in a new team, learning new ways and new controls," said Hamilton. "Now he's got through that learning process and is going to hit the ground running so there are no more excuses, for sure.

"He did great the last couple of races [in 2017] which was awesome and I'm expecting him to be in tip-top shape for this season. Do I expect him to be closer? I'd assume so and he's going to be in the best shape possible. But then so am I, that's my goal."