Max Verstappen, Red Bull’s leading driver, has publicly acknowledged Kimi Antonelli’s determination and persistence during his challenging first Formula 1 season. Despite facing difficulties, Antonelli’s commitment and resilience have impressed Verstappen, highlighting the young Italian’s refusal to ease off in the highly competitive world of F1.
Andrea Kimi Antonelli is currently navigating his rookie year in Formula 1, with the season now 16 races in. The Italian driver has experienced a mix of setbacks and modest successes throughout the campaign. While George Russell, a senior Mercedes teammate, comfortably holds fourth place in the drivers’ standings with 194 points, Antonelli remains in eighth position with 66 points, trailing behind Williams’ Alex Albon, who sits just ahead in seventh with 70 points.
At the recent Italian Grand Prix, Antonelli’s performance yielded a ninth-place finish for Mercedes, reflecting an average race for him yet again. Despite his ongoing struggles during the 2025 season, the four-time world champion Verstappen expressed admiration for Antonelli’s attitude and effort.
“Making mistakes in your first season in F1 is part of the equation. What I like most about him is that he doesn’t take it easy. He always gives his all, and I see myself reflected in him. It’s not easy to start at a top team, which, moreover, doesn’t constantly fight for victories. He’ll be fine, he just needs a little time.” Via F1i.com.
Analysis of Antonelli’s Current Standings and Prospects
The 2025 Formula 1 calendar now has just eight Grand Prix events remaining. The upcoming race is the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, and much attention will be focused on Antonelli’s ability to improve his performances. His current placement at eighth in the championship highlights the tough competition he faces in his rookie campaign, especially when compared to teammates and rivals.
The Collision Between Verstappen and Antonelli at the Austrian Grand Prix
Although Verstappen has recently praised Antonelli’s resilience, both drivers were involved in an unfortunate collision during the 2025 Austrian Grand Prix held on June 29. On the very first lap, Antonelli’s car collided with Verstappen’s RB21 as they approached Turn 3 at the Red Bull Ring. This incident forced both to retire early from the race.
Following the crash, Verstappen offered his perspective on the event, emphasizing understanding and acceptance of rookie errors in the sport.
“Unlucky, I guess. It is what it is. I spoke quickly to Kimi, he came with me to the hospitality. I think every driver has made a mistake like that. No one does that on purpose as well so for me, that’s not a big deal. It was not the weekend that I guess we hoped for pace wise. Then of course we were a little bit unlucky in Qualifying with that yellow flag, otherwise you start a bit further ahead.”
Implications for Antonelli’s Future in Formula 1
The remainder of the 2025 season will be crucial for Andrea Kimi Antonelli, as his performances could influence Mercedes’ decision regarding his contract extension for 2026. So far, he has yet to secure a renewed deal with the team, making every remaining race an important chance to demonstrate his value.
This season has tested Antonelli’s mettle, but Verstappen’s recognition of his “Kimi Antonelli resilience” signals that the young driver’s ongoing determination has not gone unnoticed in the F1 paddock. His ability to continue pushing through these challenges may define both his short-term results and long-term career trajectory within Formula 1.
