Kimi Antonelli reveals Roger Federer’s advice at Wimbledon: “It was an incredible conversation”
Kimi Antonelli arrives at Spa-Francorchamps determined to return to winning ways after going more than a month without standing on the top step of the podium. During that period, Ferrari celebrated two victories while his Mercedes teammate George Russell also claimed a win. Although Mercedes heads into the Belgian Grand Prix as one of the favourites, the unpredictable nature of the 2026 Formula 1 season means nothing can be taken for granted.
Between races, however, the 19-year-old championship leader enjoyed a very different experience away from the track. Antonelli travelled to Wimbledon, where he met tennis legend Roger Federer and came away inspired after receiving valuable advice from one of the greatest athletes in sporting history.
An unforgettable meeting at Wimbledon
Following the British Grand Prix, which ended without points for the young Italian, Kimi Antonelli spent a few days at Wimbledon, relaxing in the prestigious Royal Box. There, he had the opportunity to meet Roger Federer and enjoy a long conversation with the 20-time Grand Slam champion.
Speaking during Thursday’s FIA press conference ahead of the Belgian Grand Prix, Antonelli was asked about the encounter. The Mercedes driver explained that he has developed a growing passion for tennis in recent years and, after meeting world number one Jannik Sinner—who is himself a Formula 1 fan—he also had the chance to spend time talking with Federer.
“He taught me so much”
Antonelli spoke with enormous admiration about the Swiss legend.
“He was incredible,” Kimi Antonelli said. “He taught me so many things and told me fascinating stories about playing on grass courts. It was amazing to talk with him about anything. We discussed my racing, we talked about his career as a tennis player, but also about life in general. Besides being an extraordinary athlete, he’s also a fantastic person—very humble and very open.”
The advice that left a lasting impression
When asked whether Roger Federer had given him any practical advice that could be applied to Formula 1, Kimi Antonelli revealed that the former tennis champion shared a simple but powerful message.
“He basically told me to focus on one race at a time. Concentrate only on the things you can control, and also keep your emotions under control, especially the ones that can lead you into making mistakes. It was an incredible experience to live through.”
As Antonelli prepares for one of the most important weekends before Formula 1’s summer break, those words could prove just as valuable as any technical advice from inside the Mercedes garage. With the championship battle becoming increasingly intense, the mindset of staying focused on the present and controlling emotions may be one of the most powerful tools the young Italian carries with him to Spa-Francorchamps.
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