Max Verstappen is no stranger to spotting real talent, and when he talks about Kimi Antonelli, it’s with genuine respect. The three-time world champion sees something special in the young Italian — not just a flash of rookie luck, but raw, natural ability that’s impossible to ignore. Antonelli, despite his age, has shown maturity beyond his years, blending sharp racecraft with blistering pace on track.
Max has noted that Kimi’s approach is calm and calculated, yet aggressive when it counts — a rare combination that separates future champions from the rest. Whether it’s in junior formulae or testing sessions, Antonelli continues to impress, drawing comparisons to prodigies like Verstappen himself. His consistency, technical feedback, and unshakable focus under pressure suggest he’s not just fast, but race-smart — a crucial edge in F1.
Verstappen’s confidence in Antonelli isn’t just casual praise; it’s a nod of approval from someone who understands what it takes to rise through the ranks and dominate. In a sport where hype often overshadows substance, Max sees Kimi as the real deal — a future star whose rise isn’t a matter of if, but when. Watch this space — Antonelli isn’t just coming, he’s charging.