Antonelli names Verstappen as biggest 2027 title threat

Kimi Antonelli has identified Max Verstappen as the driver he expects to pose the greatest threat to his hopes of retaining the Formula 1 title in 2027. Antonelli clinched his maiden championship with four rounds remaining in Mexico, becoming the youngest-ever world champion at 20 years and 68 days, though much of his success came from Mercedes' early-season dominance, when he won five consecutive races.

Since the summer break, Antonelli has added only three wins, as rivals have steadily closed the gap. Red Bull has been a consistent force, with Verstappen winning three of the last five races and moving up to second in the standings, 111 points behind Antonelli. Antonelli also expects McLaren and Ferrari to challenge Mercedes next season, and said he looks forward to a close fight among the leading drivers.

Mercedes development driver Anthony Davidson shares that view, saying Verstappen would be his tip for the 2027 Drivers' Championship on current form.