Antonelli names Verstappen as biggest threat for 2027 title

Kimi Antonelli has named Red Bull's Max Verstappen as the driver most likely to challenge his world championship defence in 2027. Antonelli became Formula 1's youngest world champion at the Mexican Grand Prix, at the age of 20, and was speaking at a press conference in San Marino.

Antonelli acknowledged that Mercedes' early-season advantage, when it won the first six grands prix, has faded. He said Red Bull, McLaren and Ferrari have closed the gap, and that the balance of power can shift from track to track. He also questioned whether Mercedes can repeat its performance under the budget cap and with reduced wind tunnel hours. Verstappen sits second in the drivers' standings on 279 points, 111 behind Antonelli, and has won three of the last five grands prix.

Antonelli welcomed the prospect of a closer fight and said his title had not reduced his appetite. He said he hopes to finish the season strongly, perhaps with a few more wins, and to repeat his success next year.