Antonelli hails 'dad of the rookies' Verstappen's 'wonderful' advice
16:02, 23 Dec 2025
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Kimi Antonelli has praised the support he received from Max Verstappen during his debut Formula 1 season.
"He gave me some advice during the season, and it's fantastic to be able to race on the track with someone like him."- Max Verstappen
Antonelli finished his first year in the competition with three podiums and some very positive results to build on towards the end of the season.
The young Italian previously referred to the four-time world champion as the 'dad of the rookies', and in an interview with AutoMoto.it, he shared how Verstappen helped him throughout the season.
Antonelli driving the Mercedes car in Abu Dhabi - Photo: Race Pictures
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He said: "Max has been very open with all the rookies. He has supported us through the most difficult moments. We have a great relationship.
"He is incredibly passionate about motorsport, he watches all the categories and has a deep knowledge of them.
"It's wonderful that a driver of his caliber supports rookies like us who are just entering the category. That's not something everyone can do. He gave me some advice during the season, and it's fantastic to be able to race on the track with someone like him."
Verstappen names Antonelli as one of the rookies with 'raw talent'
When asked about which rookies are the fastest, Antonelli was one of the drivers mentioned by Verstappen.
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Alongside the Italian, the Red Bull Racing driver also mentioned Gabriel Bortoleto.
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Friday 27.03.26
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