Antonelli Admits to Tears and Doubt in Tough F1 Rookie Season
Mercedes rookie Kimi Antonelli admitted his debut F1 season was a mental battle, revealing he cried and struggled with self-doubt. He also pointed to summer Max Verstappen transfer rumors as a major distraction before improving his performance.
Mercedes rookie Kimi Antonelli has opened up about the immense mental pressure of his debut Formula 1 season, admitting he "cried a lot" and struggled with self-doubt during a difficult first half. Despite flashes of brilliance like a Miami sprint pole, the young Italian was hampered by performance issues and off-track distractions, including the summer Max Verstappen to Mercedes rumors. He ultimately found his footing in the latter stages of the campaign, showing the promise that led to his promotion.
Why it matters:
Antonelli's candid admission provides a rare glimpse into the psychological toll of Formula 1, even on a highly touted junior driver. His journey from struggling with self-doubt to finding consistency is a testament to the mental fortitude required to succeed at the pinnacle of motorsport. For Mercedes, his late-season resurgence is a promising sign that their long-term investment in a future world champion is on the right track.
The details:
- Mental Struggle: Antonelli told La Gazzetta dello Sport, "During that difficult period, I cried a lot. I struggled especially on a mental level because I started to doubt myself." He noted he lacked the "composure and clarity" of more experienced drivers when facing adversity.
- On-Track Performance: The first half of his season was defined by an inability to consistently match his teammate's pace, despite a strong start to the year.
- Season Highlights: He still managed to secure a sprint pole position in Miami and a podium finish in Canada, showcasing his raw talent and potential.
- Verstappen Rumors: Antonelli confirmed that the intense summer speculation linking Max Verstappen to a Mercedes seat was a significant mental distraction during an already challenging period. The rumors were put to rest at the Hungarian Grand Prix.
Looking Ahead:
Having navigated the turbulent waters of his rookie year, Antonelli now heads into his second season with invaluable experience and a clearer understanding of the mental demands of F1. His improved form and consistency towards the end of 2024 suggest he has turned a corner. The key question for 2025 will be whether he can carry that momentum forward and consistently challenge at the front from the season's start.