The combination of Verstappen and the RB19 car is proving unbeatable. However, Juan Pablo Montoya believes that there are competitors on the Formula 1 grid who could achieve comparable success if they were driving the same vehicle as Verstappen.
In an interview with Semana TV, Montoya noted that around seven or eight drivers could potentially become world champions with Red Bull, stepping into Verstappen’s shoes.
He specifically mentions Lewis Hamilton, Charles Leclerc, and Lando Norris as contenders who could thrive in such a scenario.
Aged 25, Verstappen is demonstrating his dominance with a significant 125-point lead over his teammate, Checo Perez.
Barring unforeseen changes, he seems poised to secure his third title. Nonetheless, Montoya argues that there’s an abundance of talent among Verstappen’s rivals, and if they were afforded similar opportunities, they could replicate Verstappen’s accomplishments.
“It’s more difficult if you’re not a good driver, but the better you are, the more chances you have to be in a good team,” Montoya noted.
“For example, Norris is a very good driver, McLaren has improved a lot, but maybe Lando would be world champion at Red Bull.”
Montoya’s viewpoint prioritizes the role of the car in F1 success. He reflects on the series of dominant periods experienced by teams over time, from Ferrari to Red Bull and then Mercedes during the hybrid era.
According to Montoya, the car has a considerable influence on a driver’s performance, stating that Verstappen’s speed isn’t markedly faster than it was two years ago – it’s the improved car that makes the difference.
Montoya finds a resemblance between the winning streaks of Verstappen and Hamilton. He expresses bemusement at Hamilton’s statements following his loss of the Formula 1 crown in Abu Dhabi, where Hamilton discussed fairness and unfairness.
“I find it funny that Lewis is always saying what is fair and what is unfair,” Montoya added.
“He’s already predicted that Max will win next year because he has a Red Bull, but then you look at the period when he was the one dominating and you think, ‘Was it you or the car?”‘
