Max Verstappen has voiced his support for Mercedes rookie Kimi Antonelli, insisting that the 19-year-old needs to be given time to settle in Formula One.
Speaking to reporters at Monza, the four-time world champion and 66-time Grand Prix winner said he sees shades of himself in Antonelli, particularly in the Italian’s willingness to fight with an all-or-nothing approach.
Verstappen stressed that such spirit is more valuable than avoiding mistakes in a rookie season.
Antonelli has experienced both highs and lows since stepping into Formula 1. He celebrated his maiden podium at the Canadian Grand Prix, offering a glimpse of his potential at the highest level.
Yet inconsistency has marked much of his year, including a costly lock-up in Austria that ended Verstappen’s race and drew sharp criticism.
Currently, Antonelli sits 128 points adrift of his Mercedes team-mate George Russell, underlining the steep learning curve he faces.
Despite this gap, Verstappen believes the teenager has the tools to succeed long term if given the space to grow.
“Making mistakes in your first season in F1 is part of the equation,” said Verstappen.
“What I like most about him is that he doesn’t take it easy. He always gives it his all, and I see myself in him.
“Could he do better? Of course. But I know how talented he is… it shows. He just needs a little patience, like everyone else.
“It’s not easy starting with a top team, which, moreover, isn’t consistently fighting for wins. He’ll be fine, he just needs a little time.”
