Antonelli Highlights Key Moments from Breakthrough Rookie Season

Reflecting on his debut Formula 1 season, Mercedes rookie Kimi Antonelli described the 2025 campaign as a 'rollercoaster' filled with defining moments. The young Italian driver celebrated early successes like his first podium in Canada but also acknowledged a significant mid-season slump before rallying with a strong finish to the year.

Why it matters:

Antonelli's ability to analyze his own performance, recognizing both triumphs and struggles, is a key indicator of his maturity and potential as a future title contender. For a team like Mercedes, investing in a driver who can learn from adversity and finish the season strong is crucial for long-term success, especially as the team navigates a new era of regulations.

The details:

• Season Highs: Antonelli pinpointed several highlights, including his first race in Melbourne where his "dream was coming true," his first Sprint pole position in Miami, and his maiden podium in Canada.
• Instinctive Drive: He specifically praised his performance in Las Vegas, where he felt he could race purely on "instincts," managing a set of tires for over 50 laps.
• Mid-Season Struggles: The 19-year-old's campaign was not without difficulty, as he experienced a noticeable dip in form during the middle of the season, struggling to consistently score points.
• Strong Finish: Antonelli rebounded impressively, securing podiums in two of the final four races, demonstrating his resilience and growth.

Looking Ahead:

Looking toward the future, Antonelli expressed confidence in the upcoming 2026 regulation changes, aligning with team principal Toto Wolff's belief that the new rules will favor younger drivers. As Mercedes gears up for a new technical era, Antonelli's strong end to his rookie season and positive outlook suggest he is poised to be a central figure in the team's title ambitions.