Charles LECLERC vs Max VERSTAPPEN
Charles LECLERC vs Max VERSTAPPEN, 2026 season. Max VERSTAPPEN leads the race head-to-head 5–4. Charles LECLERC and Max VERSTAPPEN are level in qualifying at 5–5.
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Every prediction we publish ranks the full grid. For each round we take the driver we placed higher of these two, then check who actually finished higher.
A round is only scored when both drivers appear in the predicted order and both are classified in the result — a retirement is nobody's call. Published predictions are never edited afterwards.
The rivalry
In the current Formula 1 season, the rivalry between Charles Leclerc and Max Verstappen has been defined by a closely contested performance gap across eleven shared race weekends. Verstappen currently holds a narrow 5 to 4 advantage in race head-to-head results, while qualifying performance remains deadlocked at 5 to 5. Leclerc has demonstrated superior consistency, securing 145 points compared to Verstappen’s 112, while also maintaining a strong 5 to 0 lead in sprint format events. Ferrari’s driver boasts better statistical averages, with a 5.2 average finish and a 4.45 average qualifying position, versus Verstappen’s 5.89 and 5.4 respectively. The shift in technical regulations has been a pivotal factor, forcing both drivers to adapt. While Leclerc has successfully optimized his efficiency to suit the new machinery, Verstappen has faced challenges aligning his aggressive driving style with the current car, resulting in higher attrition and greater performance volatility for the Red Bull pilot.
Round by round
2026 seasonCommon questions
Who is faster in qualifying, Charles LECLERC or Max VERSTAPPEN?
Charles LECLERC and Max VERSTAPPEN are tied in qualifying head-to-head this season at 5–5, counting only sessions where both drivers set a time.
Who has finished ahead more often, Charles LECLERC or Max VERSTAPPEN?
Max VERSTAPPEN has finished ahead of Charles LECLERC 5–4 this season, counting only races where both drivers were classified.