Former F1 team boss Giancarlo Minardi is backing teenager Kimi Antonelli to make a big splash in the 2026 season.
“I think Kimi will be a major player in 2026,” Minardi said.
The 78-year-old veteran gave a thumbs up to Antonelli’s first season with Mercedes, praising how the young driver has grown throughout the year.
Minardi seems particularly impressed with how the 19-year-old has measured up against his teammate George Russell, who’s considered one of the top talents on the grid.
“The boy had a very positive season,” Minardi told Quotidiano Sportivo. “He’s undergoing a maturation process. He’s also grown in relation to a teammate like Russell, who is one of the strongest drivers around.”
Antonelli’s rookie F1 season has been a real rollercoaster ride.
The Italian burst onto the scene with a strong start at Mercedes, but hit a rough patch mid-season that tested his resolve.
He bounced back impressively in the final races, clinching two podium finishes to end the campaign on a high note.
## Antonelli optimistic about 2026
Looking ahead, Antonelli isn’t hiding his excitement about what’s coming in 2026.
The teenager has been blown away by Mercedes’ development of next year’s car, particularly highlighting the impressive transformation he’s seen in wind tunnel testing.
He believes the team has what it takes to fight for race wins.
The young Italian even hinted at a possible title challenge when the new season gets underway.
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