Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff has hailed Kimi Antonelli's victory at the Miami Grand Prix as his finest to date, drawing comparisons between the 19-year-old driver and Italian tennis sensation Jannik Sinner. Antonelli's third consecutive win in Florida, where he fended off McLaren's Lando Norris, has propelled him to a 20-point lead in the drivers' championship over teammate George Russell.
A Stellar Start to the Season
Antonelli's triumph in Miami followed earlier successes in China and Japan, marking an extraordinary run for the young Italian in only his second Formula One season. Wolff noted that Antonelli's composure and consistency have exceeded expectations. "It seems like a lot of the speed has always been there, everything is chipping away at the finer details," Wolff said. "It's easier to slow someone, calm someone down that is wild because you won’t be able to accelerate a donkey, so for me that was his best race so far."
Comparisons to Jannik Sinner
Wolff highlighted the parallel success of Antonelli and Sinner, who has also been winning tournaments simultaneously. "On each of the Sundays when Antonelli has won this season, Sinner has also won tournaments – in Indian Wells, Miami and Madrid – in what has been something of a sporting bonanza for Italian fans," Wolff remarked. "Now that they are not qualified for football, it’s all about Sinner and Antonelli, and Antonelli and Sinner. Sinner won in Madrid, so it’s the two that are superstars."
Antonelli's Maturation
After a rookie season marked by unforced errors, Antonelli has matured rapidly, adapting to a championship-contending car. Wolff praised his ability to capitalize on the team's strong package. "I don’t think that any of us would have expected this kind of run," he said. "We’ve given him a car that is very good, and an engine that is right but how he’s been able to monetise on that every single weekend is special."
Keeping Feet on the Ground
Wolff acknowledged the challenge of managing Antonelli's rising fame, especially with Italian fans eager for sporting heroes. "The easier bit is making sure that he keeps both feet on the ground here in the team. His parents have played a big part in that, to leave him grounded. The bigger problem is the Italian public," Wolff added.
Mercedes remain undefeated this season, with Russell winning the opener in Australia. Antonelli's consistent performances have made him a realistic title contender, and Wolff believes the best is yet to come.
