Former Formula 1 driver Gerhard Berger thinks that Max Verstappen's "brilliant" race management will be decisive in this year's title battle.

Speaking on the podcast , the Austrian - who raced for teams such as Ferrari, McLaren and Benetton in the 1980s and 1990s - commented on the dispute between Verstappen and Charles Leclerc.

"Leclerc has impressed me with his talent, his single lap speed in qualifying - he's doing very, very well," Berger began.

"At race pace, I see a slight advantage for Max. He is brilliant throughout the whole race, using all the possibilities. He is very strong in overtaking, in wheel-to-wheel battles, and in reading the race."

"Combining that with Red Bull's strategy and pit-stops, which are extremely good, I believe it's an almost unbeatable package."

Berger added that Verstappen is driving better than ever after his first title in 2021, while Leclerc still has room to progress.

"I believe Verstappen is even better than last year," the Austrian continued. "I think winning a championship takes a lot of pressure off you."

As for Leclerc, Berger said, "He has made one or two mistakes this year, which shouldn't happen to a serious title contender. At Imola at the chicane, simply come in third and score the points."

"That's what Lewis (Hamilton) impresses me so much about. He is always there, when the door is open he gets on the podium and secures the points."

"Leclerc still needs a bit of experience in those areas, but overall he is a driver who can win championships."