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Verstappen names best F1 rookies…but ignores new team-mate
Dutch four-time champion Max Verstappen shared his thoughts on the most promising F1 rookies after their first year in the sport.
The 2025 season saw five rookies getting a full-time F1 seat, not counting Liam Lawson, who was already on the grid in 2024.
Jack Doohan lost his spot to Franco Colapinto after just six rounds, making him not the top pick for Verstappen either.
Verstappen highlighted Brazilian driver Gabriel Bortoleto and Mercedes’ Kimi Antonelli as promising rookies to watch out for.
Despite failing to mention his 2026 teammate Isack Hadjar, who stood on the podium with him in the rookie year, Verstappen praised the raw talent of Bortoleto and Antonelli.
Verstappen acknowledged the rookies’ occasional mistakes but emphasized their impressive performances and potential.
