Max Verstappen has analysed the rookie season in Formula 1, identifying the two newcomers he believes have the greatest potential, with Italian driver Andrea Kimi Antonelli also among them. The year of the rookies delivered plenty of excitement, and according to the Dutch driver, several young talents stood out during their first full campaign in the top category.
Verstappen has effectively taken on a mentor-like role for the new faces in the paddock. Always polite and approachable, he has often been seen chatting with them during race weekends. His passion for sim racing has helped him connect with the younger generation, many of whom took their first steps in motorsport through virtual racing. However, two rookies in particular appear to have truly impressed the four-time World Champion.
From Andrea Kimi Antonelli to Oliver Bearman, and from Isack Hadjar to Gabriel Bortoleto, 2025 proved to be the year of the rookies in Formula 1. A clear generational shift brought fresh energy into the Circus, along with several drivers showing star potential. While the standings ultimately rewarded the young driver from Bologna, who made his first steps in Formula 1 with Mercedes, the Italian was far from the only rookie to make a strong impression.
Speaking about his relationship with the young newcomers in the paddock during an interview with Viaplay, Max Verstappen explained: “It comes naturally to me to give them some advice. They come from the world of sim racing, we already know each other a little from there and that creates a stronger bond. They are younger than me, but they are very likeable. They are easy-going guys and I get on well with this kind of people.”
The two best rookies according to Verstappen
However, two names clearly stand out from the group. “It’s difficult to say who is the best, because everyone impressed at certain moments. Being rookies, they obviously made some mistakes. That’s normal, no one was consistent and it’s not something you should expect from a newcomer,” Verstappen said.
“I think Gabriel Bortoleto, together with Andrea Kimi Antonelli, are really the two with the most potential,” Max Verstappen added.
As Formula 1 continues to evolve, the endorsement of a veteran champion like Verstappen carries significant weight for the next generation. With both Antonelli and Bortoleto showing flashes of brilliance alongside their inevitable learning curves, the battle for future supremacy seems to be in very capable hands. Ultimately, this influx of talent suggests that while the names on the grid may change, the sheer level of competition is only headed in one direction.
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