Antonelli backs Brazil, Verstappen stays loyal to the Netherlands and Sergio Pérez hopes to attend matches in Mexico
The 2026 FIFA World Cup may clash with one of the busiest stretches of the Formula 1 calendar, but that will not stop the sport’s biggest stars from following football’s greatest tournament.
From Kimi Antonelli’s admiration for Brazil and Lionel Messi to Max Verstappen’s unwavering support for the Netherlands, several drivers revealed during the Canadian Grand Prix weekend which national teams they will be supporting throughout the World Cup.
Antonelli supports Brazil despite Italy’s absence
Italy’s failure to qualify for the World Cup for a third consecutive edition continues to shock Italian sports fans, but Mercedes driver Kimi Antonelli admitted he still plans to watch almost every match of the tournament.
Speaking to Globo, the 19-year-old Formula 1 championship leader revealed a special affection for Brazil and some of the legends associated with Brazilian football.
“It is an incredible event, even if Italy will not be there. It is a disaster, but okay. I will watch practically every match because it is just super cool,” Antonelli said.
The young Italian explained that his admiration comes partly from his childhood memories watching Barcelona’s legendary teams.
“I really like the way Brazil play. When I was younger, I loved that Barcelona team with Ronaldinho and Lionel Messi. I like Brazil, so if they do well, I would definitely be happy.”
Antonelli also admitted he remains a huge admirer of Messi.
“I also support Messi. He was one of my favourite players and I had the opportunity to meet him in Miami.”
Formula 1 calendar creates World Cup complications
The World Cup will overlap with a demanding period of the Formula 1 season, including races in Barcelona, Austria, Great Britain and Belgium.
The World Cup final on 19 July will take place on the same day as the Belgian Grand Prix at Spa-Francorchamps, making it difficult for many drivers to fully follow the tournament.
Verstappen loyal to the Netherlands despite family rivalry
Red Bull world champion Max Verstappen confirmed that his loyalty remains entirely with the Netherlands, despite his Belgian family connections through his mother and Brazilian links through partner Kelly Piquet.
“I will support the Netherlands. Naturally, it is my team and my country,” Verstappen joked.
“If there is any family rivalry, we will see which shirts they wear. Mine will definitely be orange.”
Colapinto backs Argentina but avoids predictions
Alpine driver Franco Colapinto will naturally support reigning world champions Argentina but avoided making bold predictions about their chances of defending the title.
“They gave us so much happiness in Qatar in 2022,” Colapinto said.
“It will be difficult because the best national teams are always competing, but I am sure they will give everything.”
Like many drivers, the Argentine admitted the busy racing calendar will make it difficult to watch every match live.
England-France rivalry reaches the Formula 1 paddock
Football rivalries also emerged inside the Formula 1 paddock during media sessions in Montreal.
Racing Bulls driver Arvin Lindblad confidently declared that the trophy was “coming home”, repeating the famous phrase often used by England supporters. Mercedes driver George Russell agreed with the statement.
French Alpine driver Pierre Gasly immediately responded with humour.
“Yes, we will see about that. It is during Spa weekend, right? We will see which home it goes back to.”
Sergio Pérez determined to attend matches in Mexico
While many European-based drivers face scheduling difficulties, Sergio Pérez appears determined to attend at least one World Cup match in person.
The Mexican driver is especially motivated because Guadalajara, his hometown, will host matches during the tournament organised by Mexico, the United States and Canada.
“We will be in Europe while they are playing in Mexico, but I will definitely go back for one match because I want to take my son,” Pérez explained.
“Having a World Cup at home, with matches in my city as well, is something very special.”
The Mexican admitted he is already trying to organise a quick trip despite the intense Formula 1 schedule.
Gabriel Bortoleto focused on Formula 1
Brazilian rookie Gabriel Bortoleto, who races for Audi, revealed that his priority will remain Formula 1 during the World Cup period.
The Brazilian explained that a demanding sequence of five races between June and the World Cup final leaves no opportunity to attend matches in person.
“I will not be able to go to a game. There are too many things happening right now and I need to focus completely on staying with the team and improving in several areas,” Bortoleto admitted.
Even so, he guaranteed that he will still support Brazil from afar.
“But I will definitely support Brazil and watch most of the matches on television.”
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