Max Verstappen’s impressive streak of 31 consecutive points finishes came to an end on Sunday at the Austrian Grand Prix after a collision with Mercedes rookie Kimi Antonelli on the opening lap.
Despite being taken out of the race, Verstappen remained remarkably calm, calling the incident a “learning” moment for the young Italian.
The crash occurred at Turn 3 when Antonelli, misjudging his braking, hit Verstappen’s Red Bull, forcing both cars out.
“Kimi is a very big talent, so he learns from that, you know, and that’s all fine,” Verstappen said, accepting Antonelli’s quick apology. “No-one does these things on their own purpose. It can happen.”
Antonelli, who received a three-place grid penalty for next weekend’s British Grand Prix, admitted he “locked the rears” and “lost the car” trying to avoid Liam Lawson. “I am sorry towards him and the team as well because it was a mistake,” he added.
The retirement was a significant setback for Verstappen’s championship hopes, especially as McLaren drivers Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri secured a dominant one-two finish.
Verstappen now trails Piastri by 61 points in the drivers’ standings.
Looking ahead, Verstappen acknowledged McLaren’s “insane” pace and wasn’t confident Red Bull could beat them at Silverstone, despite upcoming upgrades.
“Is it enough to challenge McLaren? I’m not sure yet. Probably not,” he conceded, while emphasizing the team’s ongoing efforts to improve the car.
