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Reuters

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Reuters

The title battle between Max Verstappen and Lewis Hamilton continues to intensify. After 6 races, Verstappen leads Hamilton by just 4 points heading into this weekend’s French Grand Prix.

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Although the drivers have a significant age difference of 13 years, it’s not stopping them from putting top-notch performances in every race.

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Recently, Red Bull Team Principal Christian Horner compared their rivalry to another prominent rivalry in the tennis world.

Christian Horner references Federer-Djokovic rivalry to depict the Verstappen-Hamilton battle

At just the young age of 23, Verstappen has established himself as a huge threat to Hamilton this season. In addition, Red Bull look better than ever in their battle with Mercedes this season.

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This battle between the Dutchman and the vastly experienced Hamilton draws similarities with the rivalry between Novak Djokovic and Roger Federer.

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At just 20 years of age, Djokovic won the 2008 Australian Open, despite Federer dominating the sport aged 27 at the time.

Christian Horner mentioned this long-standing tennis rivalry to mention how Verstappen is bringing the best out of Hamilton this season. In addition, the Briton also believes an F1 fan cannot ask for more than this.

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He said“As a Formula 1 fan, I couldn’t ask for anything better. I want to see the two of them compete at eye level on the racetrack and find out who is really the best.

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“It’s like Federer against Djokovic. Max forces Lewis to get the most out of himself. And vice versa. Both got better again. You are above all others.” (Quotes translated from Google)

READ MORE: Who Owns the Red Bull F1 Team?

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Can Max Verstappen extend his lead in Le Castellet?

Although Red Bull look like a much stronger outfit, Mercedes have an impressive track record in the French Grand Prix.

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In order to extend his lead over Hamilton this weekend, Verstappen needs to finish ahead of the Briton this Sunday. While free practice today will help them lay down a marker for the weekend, Red Bull will hope to keep Mercedes at bay.

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Can the Dutchman stay ahead of his British rival after June 20?

WATCH STORY: Biggest Pitlane Mishaps Featuring Hamilton, Raikkonen & Verstappen

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Sanket Nair

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Sanket Nair is an F1 & US Sports Author at EssentiallySports. He began following F1 since 2010, which made him an instant Sebastian Vettel fan. His favorite tracks on the calendar include Spa-Francorchamps, Monaco and Monza. When he's away from the keyboard, Sanket enjoys a short drive around town. He completed his Post-Graduation in Sports Management from Jain University, Bengaluru.

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