Mercedes’ Lewis Hamilton says he’s relishing the prospect of future battles with F1’s rising stars Max Verstappen and Charles Leclerc. Hamilton currently leads the way once again in the Drivers’ Championship as the season builds towards this weekend’s Belgian Grand Prix.

Ferrari’s Sebastian Vettel has not been as competitive as in previous years and now some of the younger drivers are the ones challenging the reigning world champion Hamilton.

The Englishman says he has been impressed with how far Verstappen has come with Red Bull, while Ferrari racer Leclerc has also caught the five-time champion’s attention.

Hamilton has talked up both drivers and feels their future battles should get fans excited. “We’ve seen a big step with Red Bull,” Hamilton said. “They’ve really taken a leap forward with their [Honda] power unit this year and it’s pretty great to see.

“They’re going to go from strength to strength and Max is naturally just … he’s not a youngster necessarily in the sport anymore. While he’s young, he’s been here for a few years.

“Charles is only in his second season, so he’s grown and I can only see him getting stronger and we’re already seeing some great performances from him this season and that one is definitely one to watch out for.”

Hamilton is 1.02 to win the Drivers’ Championship once again this season, while the Dutchman Verstappen is 17.00 to cause a major upset and claim his first title.