Former Formula 1 driver Juan Pablo Montoya has said that McLaren are closing in on Red Bull and Ferrari far more than any other team, including Mercedes.

The Colombian raced for the Woking-based team back in the mid-00s but never managed to win a world title with the team.

The dream for them is to get back to being championship contenders in the near future, however, and though they're probably not there yet, they do seem to be making good progress.

Speaking to Vegas Insider, Montoya suggested that if anyone is going to be joining Red Bull and Ferrari up at the front this season it looks as though it could be McLaren, rather than the likes of Mercedes.

"McLaren is one of those teams, when you look at it, that are just in the gap that if they do a big enough step with the car, they could be right there winning.

"It looks more likely that a McLaren runs with Ferrari and Red Bull, than Mercedes, right now.

Max Verstappen and Lando Norris chat at Imola

IMOLA, ITALY - APRIL 22: Pole position qualifier Max Verstappen of the Netherlands and Oracle Red Bull Racing and Third placed qualifier Lando Norris of Great Britain and McLaren talk in parc ferme during qualifying ahead of the F1 Grand Prix of Emilia Romagna at Autodromo Enzo e Dino Ferrari on April 22, 2022 in Imola, Italy. (Photo by Dan Mullan/Getty Images)

"If Mercedes did a step, then Mercedes will run closer to the McLaren and if McLaren makes a step, then it will run closer to a Red Bull and Ferrari."

You can keep up to date with all the latest F1 news, rumours and results right here at Give Me Sport.