Kimi Antonelli’s path to Formula 1 hasn’t been the smoothest ride, but that might be exactly what makes him ready for the big league.
The 18-year-old Mercedes prospect had a challenging season in Formula 2 last year with Prema Racing. His team, usually a powerhouse in the series, struggled to get their car working right all season long.
But here’s the thing – Antonelli actually outperformed his teammate Oliver Bearman, who went on to make headlines with impressive F1 debuts for both Ferrari and Haas last season.
“Last season was a really, really good lesson,” Antonelli told reporters at F1 75 Live. “It’s when the struggle comes that you become stronger and you actually learn how to overcome it.”
That’s pretty mature thinking for a teenager about to step into one of sport’s most pressure-packed environments.
His Mercedes teammate George Russell certainly thinks so. “Man. Are you sure you’re not older than 18?” Russell said after hearing Antonelli speak. “Spoke so well, this guy.”
The young Italian believes those tough times in F2 have actually prepared him better for F1’s challenges.
“I even tried to get out of it and improve the situation,” he explained. “This year it’s another big step. There’s probably going to be some struggle to face, but I feel more prepared now.”
It’s worth noting that Mercedes isn’t just looking at race results. They’re betting on Antonelli’s ability to learn and adapt – skills he’s already showing before even stepping into an F1 car.
The real test starts when he joins the F1 grid in 2025. But if his attitude is anything to go by, this kid might just be ready for it.
