Kimi Antonelli says he repeatedly doubted himself during difficult rookie season
Kimi Antonelli has described the difficult period of his rookie Formula 1 season as a crucial part of his development. The Italian entered F1 with Mercedes at 18, replacing seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton and immediately facing intense scrutiny. Although he produced several standout performances, much of his first campaign was difficult enough to prompt questions about whether Mercedes had promoted him too soon. Antonelli said he repeatedly questioned himself during that long stretch, even as the team continued to support him.
Speaking to former F1 driver Anthony Davidson on the Nu Silver Arrows Radio Show, Antonelli said the setbacks helped him mature faster by exposing him to both the highs and lows of racing at the sport’s highest level. He also acknowledged that joining Mercedes directly placed him under greater pressure, but said that pressure forced him to learn more quickly. Knowing that the team’s confidence in him had not changed, despite performances falling short of expectations, helped him regain belief.
Antonelli said Mercedes’ backing allowed him to overcome the difficult period and become more comfortable being himself within the team. That greater confidence and focus contributed to his dominant second season. Last weekend in Mexico, with four rounds still remaining, his closest rivals lost even a theoretical chance of challenging him for the championship. He consequently became the youngest F1 champion and secured Mercedes’ first drivers’ title since 2020.
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