'Dad of rookies' Verstappen reveals which youngsters are 'raw talents'

There were plenty of rookies on the Formula 1 grid at the start of the 2025 season. Kimi Antonelli, Gabriel Bortoleto, Isack Hadjar and Oliver Bearman all began their first full-time campaign at the Australian Grand Prix after being promoted from Formula 2.

Asked about the young talents, Verstappen gave a diplomatic answer about who impressed him the most this campaign. He told Viaplay: "That's difficult to say. they've all made an impression at certain moments. And they've also made their mistakes as rookies, that's the way it is."

The Red Bull Racing driver, however, explained which rookies are the fastest. He added: "I think Bortoleto - in terms of potential -, together with Kimi are the raw talents. I think, personally."

During the rookies’ season review, the help the youngsters received from the four-time world champion was once again discussed.

"Max has been very supportive of all the rookies," Antonelli began, to which Bortoleto answered: "What do they call him? The dad of the rookies."

The Mercedes driver then continued: "Yes, the dad of the rookies. It's been great. Also Lewis. But everyone, to be honest, seems to have embraced the fact that there were so many rookies on the grid."

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