Kimi Antonelli, who recently turned 20, does not display excessive self-confidence, even though he holds a 59-point lead after twelve rounds of the 2026 Formula 1 championship. This sensational driver for the Mercedes team has set several records on his way to the drivers' championship lead in only his second season in the series.
Antonelli leads his teammates George Russell and seven-time champion Lewis Hamilton of Ferrari by 59 points. Despite the successes with the 'Silver Arrows' and the apparent readiness for a world title, Antonelli realizes that victory is still far off, especially considering the example of Oscar Piastri, who missed the title while leading for most of the 2025 season. He emphasized: 'The work is not finished. We are only halfway, and there is still so much to do and achieve.'
In the current season, Antonelli has secured six victories and four podium finishes in 12 races, maximizing his car's potential. Before the mid-season F1 break, he had a 50-point lead and used the break to step out of the 'zone' and spend time with his family. He noted that they discussed Formula 1 during dinner, recalling their achievements, but maintained focus and did not allow themselves to relax.
In 2025, the Italian driver faced difficulties, finishing seventh in the championship with only three podiums. Mercedes boss Toto Wolff called his performance at the Monza Grand Prix 'unsatisfactory,' but this season Antonelli managed to change the situation, relying on accumulated experience. Antonelli believes that experience plays a huge role, and although he admits there is still much for him to master, he thinks last year helped him grow more than he expected, strengthening him emotionally and mentally.
Antonelli, who turned 20 on August 25th, is enjoying the newfound fame. He tries to embrace this moment fully, acknowledging that it is impossible to please everyone. He stressed that fans are very important and are an integral part of the sport, making it even more significant. Seeing their enthusiasm and support always brings him pleasure.
As part of his historic run, Antonelli has become the youngest F1 championship leader, the youngest pole position holder, and the first driver to register three wins from the first three pole positions. Now he aims to become the youngest F1 world champion, surpassing the record of Sebastian Vettel, who won his title in 2010 at the age of 23 years and 134 days.