Andrea Kimi Antonelli has expressed a desire to compete in endurance racing alongside Max Verstappen. However, Verstappen has advised the Mercedes driver to prioritise his current Formula 1 championship campaign. Verstappen stated that Antonelli should focus on the ongoing 2026 season before considering other racing ventures.
Antonelli, currently leading the 2026 Formula 1 Drivers’ Championship, made his F1 debut in 2025 with Mercedes, replacing Lewis Hamilton. The Italian driver has emerged as a significant force in his second season.
The 19-year-old has secured six Grand Prix victories during the 2026 season. He holds a 50-point lead over Lewis Hamilton, now with Ferrari, and a 59-point advantage over his Mercedes teammate George Russell.
Verstappen has publicly praised Antonelli’s performance throughout the current season. He described Antonelli as ‘rock solid’ and ‘really impressive’ for a driver of his age. Verstappen also noted that he sees similarities between Antonelli’s approach and his own.
The Red Bull driver believes Antonelli possesses the qualities of a future F1 champion. Verstappen, who has a personal interest in GT and endurance racing through Verstappen Racing, consistently emphasises the importance of full commitment to Formula 1.
Verstappen’s own 2026 season has been more challenging, with the four-time world champion currently positioned sixth in the standings. He trails Antonelli by 110 points.
Mercedes Team Principal Toto Wolff has indicated that the team would not hesitate to pair Verstappen and Antonelli in the future. This statement suggests a potential long-term vision for the Mercedes driver lineup.
Antonelli remains focused on his development within Formula 1 and his ongoing efforts to secure the 2026 championship with Mercedes.
