Kimi Antonelli rectifies misconception about Max Verstappen

Kimi Antonelli has defended Max Verstappen, explaining that "people have the wrong idea" about the Red Bull driver.

The Dutchman has proven a divisive figure during his decade in F1, but Antonelli insists he is a "very likeable guy" off the track.

Known for his uncompromising and aggressive brand of racing, the four-time drivers' champion continues to polarise, but evidently has a different relationship with many of his peers away from the rigours of F1.

Ahead of his first home grand prix, at Imola, the Mercedes rookie detailed some of the interests the pair share, with it having been noted they are often seen together in the F1 paddock.

"I think sometimes people have the wrong idea about Max," the 18-year-old told Italian publication La Gazzetta dello Sport.

"On the track he is a beast but off the track he is a very likeable guy. He likes GT and racing on the simulator a lot, so we have a lot in common."

Big support at Imola

Verstappen was a teenage phenom, Antonelli is now. The former has become a generational talent, whilst the latter hopes to follow in those footsteps.

The early signs have been promising, with the Italian driver being one of the current F1 campaign's revelations.

He will head into the round at Imola fresh off the back of becoming the youngest pole-sitter in the championship's history (in any qualifying format), and will be heavily supported in front of his home crowd, having grown up in nearby Bologna.

"My family, best friends and classmates," Antonelli explained when asked who would be in attendance at the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix.

"Since I cannot come to them, I thought it would be better to let them come to the track then."