Verstappen's controversial rookie rankings: why his 2026 teammate didn't make the cut

Max Verstappen has delivered a surprising verdict on Formula 1's 2025 rookie crop, singling out Gabriel Bortoleto and Andrea Kimi Antonelli as the standout prospects with the most "raw talent"—while conspicuously overlooking his incoming Red Bull teammate Isack Hadjar.

The four-time World Champion's assessment, delivered in a recent interview with Viaplay, raises eyebrows given Hadjar's impressive debut season, which included a maiden podium finish at Zandvoort—a feat Bortoleto didn't achieve in his rookie campaign.

The sim racing connection

Verstappen's choices appear heavily influenced by pre-existing relationships forged through simulator racing. The Dutchman admitted these connections developed organically, explaining: "Those guys also come a bit from the sim world. You know each other a bit from that. Then you already have a bit more of a connection".

His bond with Bortoleto proved particularly strong throughout 2025, with Verstappen frequently spotted mentoring the Brazilian driver in the paddock. Similarly, Antonelli benefited from Verstappen's guidance as the Mercedes newcomer navigated his challenging first season.

A diplomatic dilemma?

When pressed to identify the most impressive rookie, Verstappen initially deflected: "That's hard to say. They have all impressed at certain times. And again, as rookies, they made their mistakes. That's typical for a rookie". However, when specifically asked about raw speed and long-term potential, he was unequivocal in naming Bortoleto and Antonelli.

The omission of Hadjar is particularly striking given the Frenchman will partner Verstappen at Red Bull in 2026. While Hadjar secured 72 overtakes and finished P10 in the drivers' poll conducted by his peers, Verstappen's focus remained on drivers he perceives as having superior natural talent rather than immediate results.

Performance versus potential

The 2025 rookie class delivered varied performances, making direct comparisons challenging. Oliver Bearman led the overtaking statistics with 128 passes, while both Hadjar and Antonelli achieved podium finishes in vastly different machinery. Bortoleto recorded 89 overtakes throughout the season, demonstrating consistent race craft if not outright results.

Verstappen's assessment prioritizes long-term ceiling over immediate achievements, suggesting he views raw speed as the ultimate differentiator at Formula 1's pinnacle. Whether this evaluation will influence Red Bull's internal dynamics in 2026 remains to be seen, but it certainly sets an intriguing backdrop for the upcoming season.