Ecclestone predicts Kimi Antonelli will become 'another Max Verstappen' within three years

Bernie Ecclestone believes Kimi Antonelli could develop into a driver like Max Verstappen within two to three years. Speaking exclusively to RacingNews365, the former Formula 1 chief executive said Antonelli shares Verstappen's determination to win, and that his best form has yet to be seen. Antonelli became Formula 1's youngest world champion at the Mexico City Grand Prix, aged 20 years and 68 days, and was Italy's first title winner in 73 years.

Ecclestone contrasted the two drivers' upbringings, noting that Jos Verstappen was strict with his son, while Antonelli's father has been more inclined to keep him calm. Ecclestone said Antonelli would benefit from a few rough patches to polish him, and suggested he needs to accept the bad as well as the good. He added that Antonelli has only recently finished being a teenager, so his growth into a champion will take time.