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Antonelli following Verstappen's footsteps? 'What sport is all about'
- Ludo van Denderen
Max Verstappen, now almost a decade ago, did what was actually thought impossible in Formula 1. Already at the age of 16, the Dutchman got the chance to make his debut in the highest class of motorsport. In hindsight, nobody at Red Bull Racing will regret it, as Verstappen is already a three-time world champion. Andrea Kimi Antonelli (17) is the next super talent to emerge. There is a real chance that the Italian will make his F1 debut at the age of 18.
After Verstappen's entry into Formula 1, it was decided to adjust the regulations. Only when a driver turns eighteen and has a driving licence would they become eligible for a super licence - which is necessary for F1. Antonelli is only seventeen, skipped Formula 3 and will start his F2 adventure in a week's time. Yet the Italian is already being linked with the vacant seat at Mercedes for 2025. He already has the required points total of 40 for the super licence.
'The specials are really special'
Critics say Antonelli's entry into F1 is far too early, just as at the time letting Verstappen make his debut was questioned by some. "I think the special ones are special," Oliver Oakes answered this question by GPblog. The Briton is a former member of the Red Bull Junior Team and currently team boss of Hitech Grand Prix in F2 and F3.
"Some people and there's some kids who are way mature beyond their years in a race car. I think the problem today is it's not a one size fits all. Some, I shouldn't say this, but some parents may think their son or some managers may think their driver is ready to jump quicker than they're ready."
"But the truth is some of those who got into F1 very young, they are a massive talent and that's what sport is about. Whether that be Formula 1, even tennis, we've had it with youngsters and in England now we have it with a darts player (Luke Littler, 17 years old). So it does happen," Oakes believes.