Verstappen's Advice to Antonelli: 'Keep Believing in Yourself'

Max Verstappen's key takeaway from Kimi Antonelli's impressive second-place finish at the São Paulo Grand Prix was clear: the Mercedes rookie is exceptionally talented. Verstappen, who placed third in Brazil, lauded Antonelli directly on the Interlagos podium—a rare gesture for a newcomer in his debut season.

Why it matters:

Verstappen's endorsement of Kimi Antonelli, a rising star navigating a challenging rookie season, signals a significant vote of confidence from a four-time world champion. This recognition not only validates Antonelli's talent but also underscores his potential to become a future force in Formula 1, especially as he grapples with the intense pressures and fluctuations of his debut year. Such praise from a rival champion can be a pivotal moment for a young driver's confidence and trajectory.

The Details:

• Verstappen's Direct Counsel: When asked what advice he would give to a young driver like Antonelli, Verstappen emphasized the importance of self-belief amidst the 'emotional rollercoaster' of a rookie season.
• Learning from Mistakes: Verstappen highlighted that making mistakes is an integral part of the learning curve, even in Formula 1, and is essential for a driver to improve.
• Antonelli's Rollercoaster Season: Antonelli's 2025 season has been marked by extreme highs and lows:
  • A Q1 exit in Australia followed by a strong P4 debut drive.
  • A maiden sprint pole in Miami.
  • A challenging mid-season period where Mercedes' experimental rear-suspension geometry made the car difficult to handle.
  • A tearful Spa meltdown after being knocked out in both qualifying sessions, prompting reassurance from Lewis Hamilton.
• Brazil's Breakthrough: The São Paulo Grand Prix offered undeniable proof of Antonelli's maturing talent, with relentless pace and smart judgment after a first-lap incident where stewards placed full blame on Piastri.
• Verstappen's Seal of Approval: Verstappen praised Antonelli's consistent speed, noting he had observed it throughout all categories Antonelli raced in. He affirmed Antonelli 'fully deserved to be on this podium today' and highlighted the confidence boost it would provide, along with the team's support in maximizing his potential.

What's next:

Verstappen's words suggest Antonelli isn't just surviving his rookie season; he's preparing for a much larger role in the future of F1. While the immediate focus remains on completing his debut season, this endorsement from a top rival firmly places Antonelli on the radar as a significant talent to watch in the coming years. His ability to maintain flashes of brilliance through immense pressure indicates a strong foundation for future success, especially with continued development and the backing of Mercedes.