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That’s the verdict of former Benetton and Renault chief Flavio Briatore, who says Formula One needed a driver like Verstappen.
Verstappen has made waves at Red Bull this season and secured his second race win of the campaign at the Mexican Grand Prix three weeks ago.
His current team, well aware of the talent he possesses, have managed to tie the 20-year-old down until 2020.
In 2018 Verstappen will be hoping to deliver on the promise that’s seen him tipped to become the youngest ever F1 champion.
And Briatore believes the former Scuderia Toro Rosso man can go wheel-to-wheel with Mercedes driver Hamilton if Red Bull give him the right tools for the job.
"For me, Verstappen is very nice news for F1," Briatore told Express Sport, when asked if Verstappen can reach Hamilton’s level.
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"Next year, if the car is competitive, maybe he’ll be up there.
Verstappen, Hamilton and co. will wrap up the 2017 season at Abu Dhabi's Yas Marina Circuit on Sunday November 26.
Flavio Briatore spoke to Express Sport at the inaugural Football for Peace Ball at London’s Guildhall. More information available here.
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