Antonelli: An Unforgettable Podium in Formula 1
Mercedes’ young driver, Andrea Kimi Antonelli, described his first podium in Formula 1 as an experience beyond his expectations, a unique and unparalleled feeling. The talented 18-year-old racer finished in third position at the Canadian Grand Prix, behind his teammate George Russell, who took the victory, and Max Verstappen, who obtained second place and whom Antonelli admires.This historic result made Antonelli the third youngest driver to reach the podium in Formula 1, surpassed only by Verstappen and Lance Stroll.
The Italian, who started from fourth position on the grid, admitted that the final stages of the race were “stressful”.The pilot also commented on the pressure of the race.“I was hoping the race would end, to be honest. I was looking at the screen counting the laps because it was very stressful. In the last stint, I pushed a bit too hard behind Max and, eventually, I degraded the front left tire.”
Andrea Kimi Antonelli
“The last laps were difficult, especially seeing Oscar getting closer and closer in the DRS range. At one point, he even tried to overtake in turn 1. It required a lot of effort”.
Andrea Kimi Antonelli
When asked about his feelings on the podium, Antonelli replied:
The young pilot also expressed his future aspirations. “I think the goal now is to try to keep the same momentum and try to achieve more podiums, and hopefully, maybe, the first victory, you never know in the future”. Andrea Kimi Antonelli In his rookie season so far, Mercedes achieved its first double podium since last year’s Las Vegas Grand Prix, with Russell taking the victory and Lewis Hamilton in second place. Antonelli highlighted the “good dynamics” in the team and attributed the result to Russell’s help in his development as a driver.“It was much better than I imagined. Hearing the crowd as I went up to the podium gave me goosebumps. That is definitely a moment I will remember for a long time. It gives you a boost, results like this… you can’t buy this feeling. It’s an incredible feeling and you want more.
Andrea Kimi Antonelli
He also talked about the motivation to compete with the best drivers.“I am still aware that there is a lot of work to be done, especially with regard to qualifying, trying to be faster at the start of the session. But we are on the right track. The team is doing a great job. Also, with George, he is helping me to push myself even more”
Andrea Kimi Antonelli
Finally, Antonelli thanked his teammate.“Running in F1 with the other 19 best drivers on the grid gives you a lot of motivation. Having the opportunity to compete at the highest level and show what you are capable of is a great boost. Of course, seeing what Max has done over the years, especially in his rookie years, was quite amazing. So he is definitely a role model I am inspired by.
Andrea Kimi Antonelli
Verstappen, present at the press conference alongside Antonelli, was not surprised by his podium finish.“But in the end, competing against the best is a great opportunity. And having someone like George as a teammate really helps you improve. It is also thanks to George for this result because he has helped me during this first part of the season to develop and push myself even further”.
Andrea Kimi Antonelli
Verstappen concluded with a prediction about Antonelli’s future.“I knew Kimi from his karting beginnings; people were already saying great things. So I was keeping an eye on him. I think what’s impressive is that he’s naturally fast. What I like is his calm and sensible approach. Those are great qualities to have. I never doubted that the podium would come this year.”
Max Verstappen
“In the coming years, for sure, we will see a lot more of Kimi”.
Max Verstappen
