An ex-Formula 1 driver has revealed which rivals Max Verstappen fears most in the fight for the 2026 world championship, while Ferrari could still overturn early predictions and emerge as a serious contender.
The collective shakedown in Barcelona and the opening pre-season test in Bahrain have provided an initial snapshot of the competitive order ahead of the 2026 Formula 1 season. Some teams were forced to deal with technical setbacks and adaptation issues related to the new regulations, while others managed to string together a consistent and impressive number of laps, focusing primarily on reliability and data collection.
This week, when drivers return to the track once again at the Bahrain International Circuit in Sakhir, a more complete and representative picture of the competitive landscape may begin to emerge. Longer runs, qualifying simulations and fuel-corrected pace comparisons will offer clearer indications about which teams are truly ready to challenge for race victories and, ultimately, for the world championship.
In a recent interview, former Formula 1 driver David Coulthard revealed who Max Verstappen fears most in this season’s title battle. However, according to the former Red Bull and McLaren driver, Ferrari cannot be ruled out either.
The title fight
The new Formula 1 season is gradually coming to life, and the first names are beginning to circulate in the discussion surrounding the race for the world drivers’ championship. During an appearance on TalkSport, David Coulthard was asked about George Russell, who is seen by many analysts and insiders as one of the early favourites to win the 2026 world title.
The former Formula 1 driver responded candidly: “Yes, well, look, I spoke with Max [Verstappen] a couple of days ago and, when I asked him: ‘Who are your rivals?’, he replied: ‘Anyone with a Mercedes engine’.”
Coulthard then elaborated further on that statement: “There are three teams running Mercedes engines: Mercedes itself, McLaren, and obviously Williams. Williams seems to be struggling a bit. So yes, at this moment, if I had to place a bet, probably George Russell as world champion wouldn’t be a bad one.”
These remarks inevitably shift attention toward Mercedes-powered teams, particularly the factory Mercedes squad and McLaren, both of which showed encouraging signs during early testing. George Russell, who has steadily matured into a team leader at Mercedes, appears to have the consistency and technical backing required to mount a serious title challenge if the car proves competitive under the new 2026 regulations.
However, according to David Coulthard, Max Verstappen remains an outstanding candidate for the championship crown and cannot be underestimated under any circumstances. At the same time, Ferrari — now fielding Lewis Hamilton alongside Charles Leclerc — could yet disrupt the expected hierarchy.
Coulthard concluded: “But you should never underestimate Max [Verstappen], and I was reading earlier that Ferrari looked quite competitive on the long runs. So maybe a rejuvenated Lewis Hamilton will rediscover his form and win his eighth world title.”
The reference to long-run pace is particularly significant. In modern Formula 1, race simulations during testing often provide a more reliable indicator of true competitiveness than headline lap times. If Ferrari has indeed demonstrated strong consistency over extended stints, it could signal a well-balanced package capable of challenging over a full race distance.
The prospect of Lewis Hamilton fighting for an eighth world championship title — potentially breaking all historical records outright — would add a compelling narrative to the 2026 season. Meanwhile, Charles Leclerc, who has long been considered one of the fastest drivers over a single lap, could also play a decisive role in Ferrari’s championship ambitions.
As the countdown to the season opener continues, the key question remains: is the real threat to Max Verstappen coming from George Russell and the Mercedes-powered contingent, or could Ferrari’s race pace turn the championship battle into a three-way fight? The final answers will only arrive once the lights go out and the 2026 Formula 1 season truly begins.
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