As Formula 1 heads to the Austrian Grand Prix, championship leader Andrea Kimi Antonelli has the perfect opportunity to put the disappointment of Barcelona behind him. The young Mercedes driver retired just a few laps from the finish in Spain after suffering a technical problem, but he now returns to the Red Bull Ring, a circuit that carries special memories from last season.
It was at Spielberg a year ago that Antonelli made a braking error shortly after the start, taking out Max Verstappen in an incident that could easily have sparked controversy. Instead, the four-time Formula 1 World Champion reacted with remarkable composure, speaking to the rookie without anger despite the collision during Antonelli’s debut season.
Verstappen’s admiration remains unchanged
Now, ahead of this year’s Austrian Grand Prix, Max Verstappen once again spoke about the impressive progress made by the young Italian, praising the qualities that have allowed car number 12 to establish himself at the top of the championship.
“In general, to be able to do what he’s doing at that age, and to have found that level of consistency as well, is really impressive,” Max Verstappen told the media, especially after the 19-year-old secured five victories from the opening seven Grands Prix of the season.
“What he achieved in Monaco at his age was also extremely difficult, especially in qualifying, where the pressure to produce laps like that is incredibly high. I’m simply happy for him that he’s doing these things. He’s a great talent. I knew that. I expected it.”
“In your rookie season, you’re always going to make mistakes, but the important thing is learning from them, and I think he’s doing that very well. It’s really nice and impressive to see what he’s achieving now, and also to think about how much more he still has to offer.”
“Be yourself”
Although Max Verstappen made no secret of his admiration for Andrea Kimi Antonelli, he was equally clear that comparisons with Formula 1 legends or other champions are unnecessary.
“When it comes to comparisons, he said it himself: it’s important not to look at other people or try to be like someone else. Just be yourself. He understands that and simply needs to do everything in his own way.”
“That’s how you grow as a driver—by doing things your own way. It’s also very important to become your own star.”
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