Franz Tost still considers Max Verstappen the best driver on the current F1 grid. The Dutchman lost the title to Lando Norris last year, but according to the Austrian, he is still the most complete and formidable driver on the field. However, the former team principal also sees a lot of potential in Kimi Antonelli, the Mercedes revelation who is leading the world championship in 2026. In addition, he has praise for Norris, Oscar Piastri, and Charles Leclerc.
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Franz Tost, who was team principal of Racing Bulls – formerly Toro Rosso and AlphaTauri – from 2006 until the end of 2023, was recently a guest on the 15 Love – der Business Podcast. He was asked about the current power balance in Formula 1. For Tost, however, there is only one driver who really stands out. “Verstappen is currently the best driver in Formula 1,” he stated. “That is very clear. But I have to say that Kimi Antonelli is doing great, really impressive. Then follow Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris, with Charles Leclerc just behind them.”
Antonelli impresses
“Max Verstappen is simply the best,” Tost explained, who worked closely with the Dutchman during his F1 career. When a very young Verstappen made his debut at the then Toro Rosso, he was under the care of the Austrian. However, a new star is now emerging: 19-year-old Kimi Antonelli has won the last four Grands Prix in a row and has built a significant lead in the championship.
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“Antonelli has made a sensational impression in these first races of the season, especially considering his limited experience,” Tost admitted. “The way he drives, with so much calm and overview, is impressive. He already belongs to the new superstars of Formula 1. In addition, Norris and Piastri also excel, of course.” The two McLaren drivers fought an intense title battle last year, in which Norris ultimately came out on top. Finally, Tost also took note of Leclerc, Ferrari’s hope for many years. “Leclerc is a bit behind because he does not always perform consistently. Sometimes he drives races where he is sensationally fast, and sometimes he just misses the mark.”
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