Antonelli credits Verstappen's 'dad of the rookies' support as crucial in debut F1 season

Mercedes rookie Kimi Antonelli has highlighted the pivotal role Max Verstappen played in helping him and other newcomers navigate their debut Formula 1 season, dubbing the Red Bull driver the "dad of the rookies." The 19-year-old emphasized that this mentorship, alongside support from Lewis Hamilton and his family, was essential during a challenging first year on the grid.

Why it matters:

Verstappen's evolution from a fierce competitor to a mentor for the next generation signals a significant shift in the F1 driver dynamic. His active support helps stabilize a large rookie class, potentially improving the overall quality of racing and driver welfare, which is crucial for the sport's future as it integrates young talent at an unprecedented rate.

The details:

• In a season review, Antonelli praised Verstappen for being "very supportive of all the rookies," a sentiment echoed by fellow newcomer Gabriel Bortoleto, who coined the "dad of the rookies" nickname.
• The support network extended beyond Verstappen, with Antonelli noting that "everyone, to be honest, seems to have embraced the fact that there were so many rookies on the grid," including Lewis Hamilton.
• Antonelli also credited his family, particularly his father who attended every race, for providing the foundational support needed to withstand the pressures of a debut F1 season.
• This mentorship role has become a hallmark of Verstappen's recent seasons, with him frequently offering time and advice to help young drivers adapt to the immense pressures of the sport.

The big picture:

The 2025 season featured one of the largest rookie classes in recent memory, making peer integration and support more critical than ever. A champion taking a proactive role in easing this transition benefits the sport's competitive integrity and driver development pipeline. It contrasts with more isolated rookie experiences of the past and reflects a more collaborative modern paddock culture.

What's next:

As Antonelli and his fellow rookies head into their second season, the foundational support system established in year one will be tested. The focus will shift from pure survival to consistent performance and development. Verstappen's continued mentorship, should it persist, will be watched as a model for how established champions can positively influence the next generation, shaping the sport's culture for years to come.