Cape Town - Sir Jackie Stewart believes young blood like Max Verstappen has been rejuvenating for Formula 1. 

Verstappen has emerged as one of the most exciting talents in Formula 1 and is hoping 2019 will be the year that he can throw himself fully in to the title battle. 

Charles Leclerc is following in Verstappen's footsteps with his own meteoric rise up through the ranks, while the 2019 grid will also see the likes of Lando Norris and George Russell given a chance to impress. 

And Stewart believes the youth are crucial to keeping Formula 1 as fresh and exciting as possible. 

"We need young drivers, we need new blood," Stewart told F1 Fan Voice. 

"And they’re out there. Suddenly, a Verstappen arrives and blows the place apart, and that’s rejuvenating, in a way, for Formula 1, that he’s come in and done so well so quickly. 

"But Red Bull had [a lot to do with that], by bringing him on through the formative classes of the sport. 

"But it’s tougher today than it’s ever been for a young driver to come along, to find the resources." 

Stewart went on to reveal his hope for more manufacturers to join Formula 1 in order to provide more platforms for youngsters to reach the highest level. 

He added: "If more multinational corporations were to take an interest, because everybody drives a car, whether it’s a Fiat or a Ferrari. 

"They’re all driving cars, so some of the commercial enterprises of the world should see that and use motorsport because it’s infectious, and bring young drivers along and hopefully bring them to the highest levels [of motorsport]."