Verstappen praises Antonelli: Rookie's podium finish is no surprise

16:21, 16 Jun

bySavannah Lenz

Kimi Antonelli became the youngest pole setter in any capacity when he took pole for the Miami Grand Prix sprint. Now, he has joined Max Verstappen as one of the youngest podium finishers in Formula 1 history.

In the press conference after the Canadian Grand Prix, Antonelli was asked how Verstappen had inspired him growing up.

Antonelli said, “Racing in F1 with the 19 other best drivers on the grid gives you a lot of motivation. Having the chance to race at your best and show what you're capable of is a great boost.”

“Of course, seeing what Max has done over the years, especially in his rookie years, was quite astonishing. So definitely he's a model who I get inspired by.”

The Mercedes rookie continued, “But at the end, racing against the best is a great chance and having someone like George as a team-mate really helps you improve. It's also down to George this result because he has helped me during this first part of the season to develop and push myself even further.”

Verstappen to Antonelli

Verstappen on the other said said, “For me, it's not a surprise. I knew Kimi coming up through the karting ranks – people were already saying great things.“

He admitted, “I was keeping an eye on him. What's impressive is he's naturally quick. What I like is his level-headed, calm approach. Those are great qualities to have.”

“I was never in doubt that the podium would come this year. He had a few unlucky races – one of them in the sprint was also my fault with the pit stop.”

The four-time world champion said, “It was just a matter of time. I'm very happy that it happened for him. It gives you more confidence. It's a nice boost and it will only get better.”

“You're in your rookie season – there's so many things that will come at you. You learn from the weaker races, you learn from the good ones. In the coming years, for sure, we'll see a lot more of Kimi.”