Max Verstappen has commended Kimi Antonelli's exceptional performances, which have propelled him to the top of the Formula 1 Drivers' Championship halfway through the 2026 season. The 19-year-old Antonelli, in his second season, has led the standings since late March and holds a 50-point advantage over Ferrari's Lewis Hamilton.
Verstappen, who shares a friendly relationship with Antonelli, praised the young driver's consistent and strong showings, describing him as 'rock solid.' Antonelli has won six races, including his maiden Grand Prix in China, and currently leads the championship. Verstappen and Lando Norris, the Hungarian Grand Prix winner, both acknowledged Antonelli's impressive start, with Norris calling him a 'complete package' who has convincingly outperformed his teammate every weekend.
Antonelli remains humble, stating he has done a good job but still has a long way to go to reach the level of Verstappen and Norris. With 12 races remaining, Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff cautions against declaring Antonelli the title favorite, emphasizing the importance of maximizing every day to ensure a strong finish to the season.