Mercedes have received unlikely support from Max Verstappen after the Dutchman criticised the rule that he prompted which is stopping Kimi Antonelli from racing in F1.

Under the current regulations, drivers are not allowed to compete in F1 until their 18th birthday, while Antonelli, who is an option for Williams, doesn’t turn 18 until late August.

“That rule was introduced because of me, of course,” Verstappen explained. “In the end, it doesn’t stop what it’s meant for. It’s not specifically about him, but this can stop some talents from getting into Formula 1 quickly because they have to accumulate those 40 points first.

“I’m not a big fan of it, of this entire system. The FIA thinks it’s good, but I’d rather not have it. If someone is 17 or 18 years old and has maybe 20 points, but if he is very fast, why can’t he get into Formula One then?”