He added: “This sport brings exceptional drivers. Lewis is an exceptional driver, Fernando [Alonso] is an exceptional driver, Max is an exceptional driver, and this is just the facts. And in wait we have Charles [Leclerc], Carlos [Sainz], Lando [Norris], George [Russell], and the list goes on.

“These guys have shown great potential but are yet to win multiple races and championships.” And Coulthard is tipping his compatriot to bring the fight to Verstappen from next year after the 38-year-old penned a new two-year deal.

He said: “Lewis has shown his pedigree. Seven-time world champion, could have been nine times, could’ve been 10. The reality is he’s got that, he’s signed for another two years, he has got the hunger, he has been exceptional all the way from karting to where he is now, and now we will see what Mercedes give him as a car.”