Ex-driver predicts youngster to match Hamilton's achievement next season

With the overhaul of car regulations, the grid order could look completely different in the 2026 campaign.

According to former Williams driver Patrese, 19-year-old Kimi Antonelli could get his first taste of being in a title battle the upcoming season.

When presented with the question of how far Antonelli can go next year, Patrese claimed talking to Quotidiano Nazionale: "To the world title!"

If Antonelli were able to win the drivers' championship as early as next season, he would be the first driver to do so since Lewis Hamilton did in his second season back in 2008.

Patrese explained: "If Mercedes produces the best car with the new rules, Antonelli must focus on staying ahead of Russell, as he has already shown he can do this, then the rest will follow."

Antonelli achieved three podium finishes in his rookie season, including a stunning weekend at Interlagos and an impressive comeback drive at the Las Vegas Grand Prix.

Patrese added about the youngster's debut year: "Excellent. He was making his debut, he had to learn everything, and he was good at absorbing the inevitable mistakes that come with inexperience. I really liked him, he showed glimpses of absolute class."

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