In 2021, we saw an intense rivalry between Max Verstappen and Lewis Hamilton. Both drivers didn’t give an inch of space and even ran each other off. And while in 2022, Verstappen and Charles Leclerc have been respectful to each other so far; former F1 driver Jolyon Palmer feels that Leclerc let Verstappen off easy in Miami.

Speaking on the F1 Nation podcast, Palmer said he expected more from Leclerc. He added, “We’re used to seeing Lewis Hamilton and Max Verstappen barging each other off the road, all guns blazing, to try and just get their car in front at any moment in the race.”

“And the battle this year has been brilliant between Leclerc and Verstappen, but there’s not much defense from Leclerc against Max and I don’t know I just feel like there could have been more.”

“I am just surprised how respectful it’s been at the moment considering there is a potential World Championship on the line.”

READ MORE: Honda Makes Brief F1 Return With Surprise Japanese GP Announcement

The Briton felt that Ferrari was too conservative with both drivers and strategy. That let Max and Red Bull get away in Miami. Jolyon even touched on how Ferrari did not pit either car during the Safety Car period near the end and didn’t try any racier options.  

Barcelona Grand Prix: Can Carlos win it?

As Formula 1 starts with the European leg of the calendar; the race will be taking place at Carlos Sainz’s home in Barcelona. Ferrari will be looking to get back at Red Bull as the Maranello-based outfit will be bringing their first major updates of the season.

In the same podcast, Jolyon Palmer was also asked about Carlos potentially giving way to his teammate Charles Leclerc. Palmer said, “I can very much guarantee it won’t be this weekend if it does for Carlos, can you imagine telling him that that he’s gotta get out of the way.”

“And he’s never won a race, so it’s the trickiest one for Carlos because he beat Charles in the point as well last year, so I don’t think the point comes just yet.”

WATCH THIS STORY: F1 Drivers Fighting on Track

And Carlos too is looking forward to the weekend as he could potentially take a win or a podium. After a difficult two races in Imola and Australia, the Spaniard bounced back in Miami by taking a third-place finish. But it wasn’t easy as he had to hold off a charging Sergio Perez with fresher tires. 

Sainz has done 145 starts in F1 but still yet doesn’t have a win to his name. Can the “Smooth Operator” win his home Grand Prix? Let us know in the comments.