The Mercedes rookie gave a positive assessment of his first five Formula 1 races, saying he believes he has already learned a lot, but also acknowledges that there are still many areas where he needs to improve. In Miami, he took part in hot laps to get a feel for a track he had only seen in the simulator.
Two months have passed since Kimi Antonelli made his debut in pre-season testing at the Sakhir circuit. The five race weekends over six weeks have been a full immersion into the world of Formula 1—an intense experience that already allows for a first evaluation. “The first thing I feel I’ve experienced and set aside is the dream of making my Formula 1 debut, something I had imagined since karting days and can now say I’ve achieved. I’ll add that I didn’t expect to do it so soon, but a combination of factors sped up the process.”
Five race weekends, especially as your first ever, have allowed Antonelli to begin building his experience. “Race after race I’m starting to feel more and more comfortable, I’m starting to have control over what I do. The start, the wheel controls, race management—everything is becoming more familiar, I can feel myself improving constantly, but at the same time I also feel how fast time is flying. If I think back to Melbourne, I remember it as a very good weekend, satisfying in its outcome, but I also remember the tension, and I realize that now. If I think back to FP1, what stands out is mostly what I forgot to do because of the nerves.”
The assessment of Kimi Antonelli’s first five Grands Prix is undoubtedly positive, but Kimi remains cautious. “I’m very self-critical, so I’d say the assessment is fair for now. I say this because there have been many positives but also many aspects I still need to work on and improve. Let’s say I’m quite happy but also aware that there’s still a lot to do.”
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