Before leaving for Suzuka, the Bolognese driver attended the 4th Happy BirthAyrton event organized by the Tifoseria Ayrton Senna Italia in Imola. The Suzuka winner was greeted with a standing ovation. Speaking to Motorsport.com, he shared his ambitions: “I’ll give it another shot in Japan, but it won’t be easy – a tough track for battery management.”
A standing ovation for the rising star
No one knew Kimi Antonelli would be present, but he insisted on attending before heading to Bologna Airport for his flight to Japan. Over three hundred fans gathered in the Checco Costa hall at the Enzo e Dino Ferrari circuit for the 4th Happy BirthAyrton, giving the 19-year-old Mercedes driver a long standing ovation.
Antonelli has always shown admiration for the three-time world champion: “…it’s wonderful to be here celebrating a true legend. Amazing. Ayrton has always been a myth to me.” However, the young talent from Bologna is no longer a rookie entering F1; he is a race winner piloting the best car. With that comes responsibility. Riccardo Patrese, who finished second once and third twice in the 1990s, told him from the stage: “You’ll have to fight for the World Championship.”
Senna as an inspiration
“I looked at what Senna did for the people, for Brazil. He has been a source of inspiration for me. He paid attention to every detail to be competitive. I’m doing what I’ve always dreamed of and loved, and I’m ready to give everything for my goal. And I want to achieve it.”
For now, the number 12 connects them, but there’s more – starting with the strong charisma of this young driver who seems truly destined for greatness. He entered F1’s elite quickly but remains the same approachable young man, ready to sign autographs and take selfies. The real test awaits at Suzuka.
Expectations for Suzuka
After winning his first Grand Prix in China, what are your expectations for Japan?
“I don’t have huge expectations. In the end, it’s just another race on the calendar. I’m going to Suzuka with a clear plan on what I need to achieve, but without putting too much pressure on myself because Shanghai went well. I’m very happy with that and aware of what I can do, but I know it won’t be easy. I’ll need to stay focused without second-guessing myself.”
Having celebrated in Bologna and worked in the Brackley simulator, what’s your impression of Suzuka, a track very different from Melbourne and Shanghai?
“It’s again a track that will be difficult for battery usage. There are points where energy management will be crucial. You need to be on top of it from the start because Suzuka is tricky for recharging. Plus, it’s been resurfaced, so grip will feel different, and the forecast predicts cold weather. The weather will add another variable, so we can’t afford mistakes.”
Mastering tire wear
You have an extraordinary ability to manage tire wear, often hitting your peak in the latter stages of a race. George understands this?
“Last year, I already showed glimpses of what I can do. I never fully realized my potential, and this year I want to focus on that because I have an incredible opportunity. George and I have a very fast car, so I want to make the most of it and give it my all.”
“I know opportunities like this don’t come every day, so I’ll do my best and fight until the end. I’m in a great position with a top team, and I intend to make it count.”
Winning mindset
Compared to last year, would finishing second be a defeat?
“No, it wouldn’t be a defeat. But now I’ve won a GP, and I know I could repeat it. Winning is just too thrilling.”
So far, there hasn’t been a direct battle with Russell. Do you expect one in Japan?
“We’ll see. Honestly, I don’t know. It might happen, maybe yes, maybe no. I’ve said the weather could be unpredictable. One thing is certain: I’ll give my best.”
Team dynamics
Mercedes has seen teammate rivalries before, like Rosberg vs Hamilton in Barcelona 2016. Are you the type to seek sparks or avoid them?
“I’m aware that a good team dynamic is essential. Both of us are extremely competitive, but there’s mutual respect. I’m not the type to want conflicts to happen.”
Mercedes W17 performance
How superior is the W17 right now?
“It’s superior, but other cars have the same engine. The package is much more complete, and I must say the team is doing an excellent job.”
Are we giving too much credit to the power unit?
“No, it’s not just the engine. The chassis is crucial because you still have to drive through corners. People talk too much about the engine and too little about the chassis. Our car worked so well in China that we had minimal graining on the tires. It’s clear: the car is performing.”
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