Max Verstappen needs to “channel himself” if he wants to reach the same level as Lewis Hamilton, Formula 1 legend Alain Prost claims.
In recent years, the Dutchman has improved to the point where many now see him as second to the six-time world champion in the list of fastest drivers on the grid.
And indeed, when Red Bull have had a car to match the Mercedes, Verstappen has engaged Hamilton in some brilliant battles, notably in Hungary and Brazil last year.
So it’s no surprise, given it is hoped the top three teams will be very close in 2020, that Prost does see Max as a contender to Hamilton this season.
“The most complete driver right now is Hamilton because he has experience and he is with a dedicated team,” the four-time world champion told Le Parisien.
“After there are more drivers like Max Verstappen and Charles Leclerc, these two will be the most dangerous for Hamilton.”
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There are still times, Prost believes however when the 22-year-old can be too exuberant and make mistakes.
“Verstappen needs to channel himself a little,” the Frenchman added.
“He lacks a bit of composure in certain moments. But when he has that, and a good car, he will be hard to beat.”
Prost is still a regular figure in the F1 paddock as an advisor at Renault and he is excited to see the return of another youngster with the team.
“I am very happy that Esteban Ocon is joining us,” he said. “He took an unintended sabbatical, but it was an experience and it will give him a little maturity.
“Many French drivers are in the same situation as him, it is part of the difficulties to access F1. There is more and more money in the world, but not here.
“The very, very good, we see them anyway, but a few can be left behind because they will be overtaken by people who will have more money.”
