Australia is hosting the Formula 1 season opener, and all eyes are on rookie Kimi Antonelli as he prepares for his debut at the Australian Grand Prix on March 16, 2025. The 18-year-old driver, who fills the seat once held by seven-time World Champion Lewis Hamilton, spoke highly of his predecessor, emphasizing Hamilton's generosity and support during this pivotal moment of his young career.
Antonelli, who has rapidly ascended through the ranks of the Mercedes junior team, stated, "Lewis has always been nice to me and also gives me some advice." At Thursday's press conference, he reflected on Hamilton's impact, highlighting how Hamilton's kindness showcases his character beyond being just a stellar driver. "I think you wrote a message in the drivers’ room, so I'm going to be able to see it pretty soon. He's always been really nice to me, and I'm really, really grateful for this because it shows he's not only a great driver but also a great person," Antonelli added.
For Antonelli, racing against figures like Hamilton and Carlos Sainz is surreal. He shared, "When you're used to seeing them on TV and then finally you're able to share the track with them, it is an incredible feeling." Hamilton reciprocated this sentiment, expressing pride and admiration for Antonelli’s rapid progress. "The first reason I was smiling was just looking at this youngster here," he said, gesturing to Antonelli. "He’s doing so well and conducting himself so well. Taking this first leap and getting this first opportunity to be in Formula 1, it’s so, so special."
On track results from practice sessions show promise for the rookie. Mercedes chief Toto Wolff gave insight after the sessions, stating, "Kimi is just making step by step by step, and it's really encouraging to see." Although Antonelli's results weren’t stellar initially, with finishes of 14th and 16th during the first two practice sessions, he kicked up his performance by clocking the 5th fastest time during the final practice. Despite Mercedes having challenges with performance compared to rivals like Ferrari and McLaren, Antonelli remains optimistic about improving his one-lap pace.
Adding to the narrative, Antonelli’s past experience was highlighted following his challenging first practice session during the Italian GP last year at Monza. There, he unfortunately lost control and crashed at Parabolica, which drew considerable criticism. George Russell, Antonelli's teammate for the upcoming race, was reported as being disappointed at the time. "[Russell] was not very happy, but before going out at the Parabolica, I was going strong. With George I have a good relationship, he did not give me much advice, but for now everything is fine. But next year I want to beat him," Antonelli revealed.
Former Haas F1 Principal Guenther Steiner, reflecting on the rookie's crash, defined the core rule for new drivers: "Don’t crash it." Steiner firmly noted the consequences of failing to uphold this cardinal rule, stating, "If you crash it, you will be remembered as the guy - idiot, bracket closed - who crashed the car in his first FP1."
Beyond the technical aspects of racing, ex-Jordan F1 boss Eddie Jordan weighed in, noting how the pressure of stepping up to Mercedes may be too intense for such young talent. "We always said I thought the pressure of Mercedes would be too much for Kimi and his debut and his first run - and it turned out that's the way it was," he remarked. Jordan's insight highlights the high stakes surrounding Antonelli, who carries the weight of expectations from both fans and the Mercedes team now more than ever.
Despite the earlier setbacks, this weekend marks the beginning of what many hope will be a stellar career for Antonelli. With mentors like Hamilton and support from team principal Wolff, he has the resources and guidance necessary to navigate the highs and lows of Formula One racing. The world watches as Antonelli takes to the grid at the Albert Park Circuit, aiming for not just personal success but to honor the legacy of his predecessor, Hamilton.
Here’s hoping this highly-anticipated debut goes beyond expectations for Kimi Antonelli as he prepares to make his mark on Formula 1.