Max Verstappen praised the rock solid performances that have carried Kimi Antonelli to the top of Formula 1’s Drivers’ Championship over the first half of the 2026 season. The 19‑year‑old, in just his second season at the top level, has led the standings since the end of March and held a 50‑point lead over Ferrari’s Lewis Hamilton as the sport broke for summer.

Antonelli joined Verstappen as the only driver to win a race as a teenager in F1 history, scoring his maiden Grand Prix win in China and having added five more victories to his tally. He now leads teammate George Russell by 59 points after 11 races, showing an impressive consistency that has surprised outsiders.

In the Hungarian Grand Prix post‑race press conference, Lando Norris echoed the praise, calling Antonelli a “complete package” and noting that the Mercedes car has been a great platform for him to “convincingly beat his teammate every single weekend.” Their friendly relationship adds to the team’s dynamic.

Mercedes’ team principal Toto Wolff remains cautious, saying it’s too early to declare Antonelli a title favourite with 12 races still to go. He emphasised the need for reliability and consistency, hoping the season will culminate with a sprint weekend at the Dutch Grand Prix from August 21‑23.