Kimi Antonelli hails 'astonishing' Max Verstappen: 'I get inspired'

Kimi Antonelli described Max Verstappen as "astonishing" and someone he gets "inspired by" after battling the Dutchman in the Canadian Grand Prix. 

The young Mercedes star secured third at the Circuit Gilles Villeneuve, marking his first podium in the pinnacle of motorsport. 

In doing so, he became the third youngest driver to claim an F1 podium, and the first Italian since Jarno Trulli in the 2009 Japanese Grand Prix. 

Antonelli started in fourth but moved into third on the opening lap, following an excellent overtake on championship leader Oscar Piastri. 

He attempted to take second from Verstappen but had to settle for the final spot on the podium behind the four-time world champion. 

It was an emotional moment for Antonelli, his family and Mercedes, with the 18-year-old having received a huge cheer as he walked onto the podium. 

Given his age, it is the first of likely many podiums for Antonelli, who explained what about Verstappen motivates him.

"Racing in F1 with the 19 other best drivers on the grid gives you a lot of motivation," Antonelli told media, including RacingNews365, in Montreal. 

"Having the chance to race at your best and show what you're capable of is a great boost. Of course, seeing what Max has done over the years, especially in his rookie years, was quite astonishing. 

"So definitely he's a model who I get inspired by. But at the end, racing against the best is a great chance. And having someone like George as a team-mate really helps you improve. 

"It's also down to George this result because he has helped me during this first part of the season to develop and push myself even further."