Verstappen's Ally Suggests Title Fight with Antonelli Would Show a 'More Human' Side

Daniel Juncadella, a close associate of Max Verstappen, has expressed an intriguing perspective on how a championship duel between Verstappen and Kimi Antonelli might unfold. Juncadella suggests that such a rivalry could bring out a 'more human' side of the Red Bull driver, contrasting with the relentless competitiveness fans have grown accustomed to.

Verstappen's reputation for precision and aggressive racing tactics is well-known, often drawing comparisons to a machine-like focus on the track. However, Juncadella, a Spanish touring car driver, thinks the camaraderie and mutual respect between Verstappen and Antonelli could change the dynamics. "It's a scenario I'd like to witness," he shared during an interview with Mundo Deportivo, suggesting that such a rivalry might reveal a softer side to the Dutch driver.

The Red Bull star has often been likened to figures such as Lionel Messi for his mastery and dominance in his sport. Yet, his fierce approach in wheel-to-wheel encounters, especially against competitors like Lewis Hamilton and Lando Norris, has sometimes led to on-track friction. Juncadella speculates that this might not be the case with the Italian driver Antonelli, who shares a strong rapport with Verstappen.

Reflecting on the hypothetical contest, Juncadella remarked, "With Antonelli, I don't know what would happen, because the truth is they have a very good relationship. We might see a slightly more human side to Verstappen there, and he might not make certain moves that he's made with others."

The 2026 season has seen both Verstappen and Antonelli excel, particularly since the Barcelona-Catalunya Grand Prix, making them the top scorers in the latter part of the season. As Red Bull continues to develop its car, they are positioning themselves to challenge Mercedes, the current title defenders, in the upcoming season. If Antonelli continues his strong performances, a battle with Verstappen could indeed be on the cards, potentially giving fans a new storyline to follow.

Juncadella's comments add an interesting dimension to the usual narratives in F1, suggesting that personal dynamics and friendships can influence the nature of rivalries at the top level of motorsport. Whether or not this potential softer side of Verstappen will be seen remains speculative, but it certainly provides a fresh angle on the ever-evolving world of Formula 1 competition.