Max Verstappen could beat Lewis Hamilton and Michael Schumacher to become F1’s greatest ever driver, according to former McLaren star Pedro de la Rosa. Verstappen clinched his first world title last season in controversial circumstances but has enjoyed an easier run his season.The Dutchman has picked up eight wins from 13 races and enjoys a comfortable lead over nearest rival Charles Leclerc. The reigning champion is so far ahead that he can afford to not start the next three races and still be in the lead.De la Rosa made the comment when asked if Verstappen had the calibre to rank among the sport’s greatest such as Hamilton, Schumacher and Ayrton Senna. Speaking to Racing News 365, De la Rosa simply replied: “I think Max has everything it takes to become one of the best of all time in Formula One.”He has all the qualities, that’s for sure. Only time will tell which teams he will drive for and how competitive those teams will be in the next 10 years. But Max has everything it takes to become the best.”READ MORE: Verstappen explains why he prefers fighting Leclerc than HamiltonIf victorious this season, the Dutchman could still have another decade or more to add just five more titles to match the record. De la Rosa added: “I think he is the best driver at the moment.”But let’s not forget Hamilton, [Fernando] Alonso and Leclerc and I also have a lot of respect for drivers like [Lando] Norris, [George] Russell or [Carlos] Sainz, who are at a high level. If I had to choose a driver who is peaking and reaching his highest level right now, it would be Max.”
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