Kimi Antonelli opened up about the moment he realized he was truly ready for Formula 1 and shared his perspective on racing alongside his teammate George Russell. For the Italian driver, it wasn’t a podium or a pole position that marked this turning point, but a unique feeling experienced during the Las Vegas Grand Prix.
Las Vegas marked the turning point for Kimi Antonelli
In an interview with Roberto Chinchero for Motorsport.com Italia, Kimi Antonelli explained:
“For the first time, I felt something different: I was in a tunnel, everything came automatically, without overthinking. I was driving and didn’t have an exact perception of every action; it all came naturally. It was an incredible feeling. I almost felt annoyed when I received messages from Bono because they brought me back to reality.”
This was not the only time he experienced the sensation of operating completely on instinct:
“In Japan, during the second stint of the race, I felt really good. In Canada, I had the McLarens behind me and I knew I couldn’t afford any mistakes. In Brazil, when I saw Max in my mirrors, I felt something similar.”
Russell is like an older brother
Kimi Antonelli also spoke about his relationship with teammate George Russell:
“Many times I looked at George’s times on the monitor and thought, ‘How does he do that?’ On some laps, I thought I had done a great job, then I looked at his data and realized I could push much more. I really believe he is one of the strongest drivers on the grid. Racing alongside him helped me understand where the difference can be made, especially in tyre management. These tyres are very sensitive. If you let them slide at the wrong moment, you’re in trouble. But in other conditions, it’s vital to do it.”
Looking ahead to 2026 and advice to his past self
Now Kimi Antonelli’s focus is on the future and the 2026 regulation changes:
“It’s going to be an amazing opportunity. Everyone will start from zero, and that motivates me a lot. If I have a competitive car, it will be up to me to make the difference. My dream is to fight for victories.”
Before that, he has a piece of advice for his younger self back in Melbourne:
“Trust your instincts and your abilities more. When you get in the car, you need a killer mentality. Don’t give too much weight to what people say on social media.”
That hard-earned wisdom encapsulates a transformative rookie year for Kimi Antonelli. After navigating early nerves and mid-season doubts, the Italian has emerged stronger and more self-assured – qualities that could position him as a serious contender when the new era dawns in 2026.
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