Verstappen's Brazil charge still impresses Davidson

Max Verstappen's charge from the back of the field to second in Brazil no longer surprises Anthony Davidson. Still, the former F1 driver said he was deeply impressed by the performance.

Rain gave the drivers a chance to make the difference: Lando Norris took pole and the win, while Verstappen, who had complained about the RB22's behaviour, still reached the podium.

Speaking on the Sky F1 podcast, Davidson said Verstappen was in his element on the circuit. He could hardly imagine being the Dutchman's team-mate in those conditions and wondered what went through Isack Hadjar's mind when Verstappen appeared in his mirrors.

Davidson also praised Norris, saying both drivers were suited to such changeable conditions. He described Norris relying on feel near the grip limit on slicks, with aquaplaning and damp patches in play. Norris's race looked less dramatic, Davidson said, but was at least as impressive as Verstappen's; he called the McLaren driver a worthy reigning champion.