Daniel Ricciardo believes Lewis Hamilton is proving his doubters wrong by keeping rival Max Verstappen in his shade.
Seven-time world champion Hamilton, 36, heads into next weekend's Monaco Grand Prix with a 14-point lead over the Red Bull driver after winning three of the opening four rounds.
Hamilton has dominated Formula One in recent years and some have put the Englishman's success solely down to the strength of his all-conquering Mercedes.
"Rivalries are great for the sport and hopefully at some stage that will create some opportunity for us because it is only a matter of time until they are both determined not to let up into turn one and neither of them come out of the other side," said Brown.
"Lewis has had a pretty easy ride outside of 2016 with Nico Rosberg so I think it is a great rivalry.
"Max has gotten Lewis to step up – not that he needed it – but he is definitely on his A-game.
"It is clear Lewis is a very smart driver and you can see him sitting there and waiting to strike. He is not over-eager and that is his experience coming through."
