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Antonelli names Verstappen as his biggest 2027 threat
Reigning champion Kimi Antonelli picks Max Verstappen as his toughest rival for 2027 and expects a close fight among the top teams.
Kimi Antonelli has already turned his attention to 2027, and he has a clear view of who could trouble him most. The reigning champion named Max Verstappen as the driver most likely to cause him problems, while predicting a tight battle between the front-running teams.
Verstappen is the rival Antonelli fears most
Speaking in Italian at a press conference hosted by Sky Sport F1 Italia in his home town of San Marino, Antonelli said that if he had to pick one driver, it would be Verstappen. The Dutchman has built a reputation for remarkable comebacks. He missed out on the 2025 title by just two points and has since climbed into second in the standings, helped by Red Bull's turnaround this year.
Antonelli's own season was built on nine race wins and seven further podiums, enough to seal the Drivers' Championship with third place in Mexico City behind Verstappen and Lewis Hamilton. His rise has drawn plenty of attention, including Räikkönen's backing for him to become the youngest F1 world champion, and the numbers behind his title are set out in his full 2026 record.
Ferrari and McLaren could fill the gaps
Verstappen will not be the only one looking to challenge Antonelli. Ferrari and McLaren are likely to be chasing more consistent form at the front. Both have won races in 2026, with Ferrari taking two and Lando Norris delivering three for McLaren, yet their results have fluctuated. That opens the door for Red Bull to push for stronger results after a frustrating start to the latest era.
Antonelli was candid about the pack. He said McLaren made huge gains, then struggled for a spell, before bouncing back, and that Ferrari are always there. He also listed Hamilton, Charles Leclerc, his team-mate George Russell, Verstappen and Norris as drivers he would like to fight with among the top teams. Russell, whose season has been a rollercoaster, is determined to recover and go after his first world title.
A tight 2027 fight is taking shape
Antonelli expects the top teams to be closely matched, because they are already very close. With Red Bull's upgrades, and with McLaren and Ferrari both capable of strong runs, the 2027 picture looks tantalisingly competitive. Verstappen has already congratulated Antonelli on his title, and the new champion will have to be at his best to defend the crown he has only just won.