Antonelli Set to Unleash Ruthless Side: ‘No One Hands Out Favors’
Andrea Kimi Antonelli is set to debut with Mercedes next season, but the young driver is well aware that Formula 1 isn’t the place to make friends on track. The Mercedes Junior Driver speaks highly of Max Verstappen and their early conversations, but he knows competitive racing leaves no room for friendly favors.
Is Antonelli Ready to Take on Verstappen?
Andrea Kimi Antonelli is already building connections with some Formula 1 drivers, including future teammate George Russell, and has even exchanged words with Max Verstappen. “I’ve spoken to him a few times—he’s a great guy, and I like him a lot. We’ve also raced together on the simulator, and he really keeps up with the lower categories. On the track, he’s tough, but off it, he’s very easygoing and down-to-earth,” Antonelli shared at La Gazzetta dello Sport’s Festival dello Sport.
When asked about friendships among competitors, Antonelli clarified, “Off the track, yes, but on it, no. Nobody hands out favors, and that’s not the point. You’re racing only for yourself.”
Antonelli: ‘Staying Calm is Key’
Announced as Lewis Hamilton’s successor earlier this season in Italy, Andrea Kimi Antonelli admits it hasn’t fully hit him yet. “I don’t quite realize it yet—maybe it will sink in by Melbourne. It’s going to be exciting, but right now, I’m focused on self-improvement. Staying calm will be essential,” he shared.
After a tough start in F1 with a practice crash at Monza, Antonelli aims to approach his debut race with composure. “You try to focus solely on your tasks—visualizing different scenarios at the start. The nerves will be there, but I’m concentrating on what I need to do.”
Source: https://www.gpblog.com/en/news/305891/antonelli-ready-to-showcase-brutal-side-nobody-does-you-any-favours.html
