Table of Content
Kimi Antonelli secured a record-breaking Formula 1 world championship in Mexico with four rounds to spare, making him the youngest-ever title winner. Autosport writers have selected the standout performances and moments from his campaign that transformed the Italian driver from a contender into a champion.
Melbourne: Response to FP3 Crash
Filip Cleeren noted that finishing second to Mercedes team-mate George Russell in the season opener in Australia proved Antonelli had matured since his difficult moments in 2025. After a heavy 25G crash in the final practice session, Antonelli stayed calm while the team rebuilt his car, securing second on the grid and recovering from a poor start involving lost battery power to claim the runner-up spot.
Antonelli explained in Austin that a full year of experience allowed him to approach difficult situations with a clearer, happier mindset and better teamwork.
Canada: Statement Drive Against Russell
Ewan Gale highlighted the Canadian Grand Prix as the first true, direct battle between Antonelli and his team-mate for the lead. After fighting closely through damp conditions and recovering from a near-miss at the final chicane, Antonelli showed his tenacity despite an unsuccessful overtaking attempt on lap 13. Russell ultimately retired due to a mechanical failure while leading, but Antonelli had proven he could go toe-to-toe with his teammate.
Monaco: Precision and Speed
Stuart Codling pointed to Monaco as the weekend where Antonelli balanced his natural aggression with precise consistency. On a track that punishes errors, Antonelli secured pole position and drove to his fifth consecutive victory under constant pressure.
Mercedes boss Toto Wolff expressed surprise at Antonelli’s pace, noting that his lap times were significantly faster than the competition and ran like clockwork.
Belgium: Stopping Russell’s Momentum
Ed Hardy stated that the Belgian Grand Prix removed doubts about Antonelli’s ability to handle pressure after Russell closed the points gap. Arriving in Belgium following two non-scores due to car issues, Antonelli topped two practice sessions, took pole position, and overtook Charles Leclerc for the victory while Russell retired following a first-lap collision.
Monza: A Historic Home Recovery
Ben Vinel described Antonelli’s drive at his home race in Monza as his most formidable performance, starting from the back of the grid after taking a new power unit. Following an early red flag and multiple impressive overtakes through the field, Antonelli capitalized on a virtual safety car and fresher medium tyres to pass Russell and win from 19th on the grid.
Antonelli stated that he believed in his chances after the second restart and noted it was one of the best races of his career.
Baku: Damage Limitation in Azerbaijan
Jake Boxall-Legge highlighted the Azerbaijan Grand Prix as a masterclass in salvaging points after a qualifying error forced Antonelli to start 16th. Choosing to drive with caution and take margin in the early laps, Antonelli avoided the chaos that eliminated other drivers and successfully limited Russell’s points gain to 15.
Austin: Maturity Under Championship Pressure
Ronald Vording noted that the United States Grand Prix was Antonelli’s most impressive race of the season. Despite the intense media focus on his potential title win, the young driver delivered a flawless performance with a strong start, clean pace, and avoidance of track-limit penalties.
Vording added that Antonelli maintained his friendly demeanor throughout the weekend and deflected praise toward his family and the Mercedes team during the post-race press conference.
