Max Verstappen gets a lot of stick in the media for his direct communication style and blunt takes on just about everything in Formula 1. But if you actually talk to the drivers who race against him week in and week out, you get a completely different picture of who he really is. Kimi Antonelli, the 20-year-old sensation who's taking the 2026 season by storm, has just offered fresh insight into what makes the Red Bull driver so respected behind the scenes.

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After Antonelli's emotional home victory at Monza a couple of weeks back, Verstappen made a point of coming over to congratulate him, along with Lando Norris. It might seem like a small gesture, but in Antonelli's eyes it tells you everything you need to know about the four-time world champion's character. Speaking to Automoto.it, the young Italian was full of praise for how Verstappen conducts himself both on and off the track. He explained how Max is always willing to offer him advice when needed, and how much he values that kind of support from someone of Verstappen's calibre.

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What Antonelli really wanted to highlight is that Verstappen deserves every bit of success he's earned in this sport. The Mercedes driver acknowledged that not everyone sees this side of Max because of how he comes across to the media. But when you actually get to know him, you realise he's an exceptional person, not just an exceptional driver. Verstappen and Lewis Hamilton even found themselves on the same page about how special Antonelli's Monza win was, with both drivers appreciating the significance of scoring at your home race.

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It's a timely reminder that what we see in press conferences and on social media doesn't always tell the full story. Alex Albon previously defended Verstappen against his media portrayal as well, and now Antonelli is adding his voice to the chorus of drivers who insist he's been misunderstood. For a championship contender and youngster trying to prove himself like Antonelli, having a competitor of Verstappen's stature show that kind of respect clearly means the world.

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