“It Was Tense”: Kimi Antonelli Admits Nerve-Racking F...read more

“It Was Tense”: Kimi Antonelli Admits Nerve-Racking F…read more

Kimi Antonelli, one of Formula 1’s most highly-anticipated rising stars, has confessed that his first meeting with a key Lewis Hamilton ally was far from smooth. In a candid revelation, the 17-year-old Mercedes junior admitted the encounter was “tense,” adding to the weight of expectations surrounding his budding career.

Antonelli, who is being groomed by Mercedes as a potential successor to Hamilton or Russell, is no stranger to pressure. Yet, even he felt the intensity of a meeting that could shape the trajectory of his future. “It was a bit tense, I have to be honest,” Antonelli said. “When you meet someone so influential in the sport, especially someone close to a legend like Hamilton, you feel the pressure to impress.”

While Antonelli refrained from naming the individual, speculation suggests it could be a high-ranking figure within the Mercedes F1 team or a member of Hamilton’s inner circle — both of whom wield significant influence in the paddock. Regardless of the identity, the encounter served as a reality check for the young driver, who has spent the past few years dominating the junior formulas with ease.

Now competing in Formula 2, Antonelli remains focused on proving he has the talent and mental fortitude to rise to the top. “Meetings like that remind you that Formula 1 is about more than just speed,” he noted. “It’s also about composure, character, and how you handle the spotlight.”

With pressure mounting and the spotlight intensifying, Antonelli’s journey to F1 will be closely watched. One awkward first impression may not define him — but in a cutthroat sport like Formula 1, every moment counts.

Kimi Antonelli admitted that his first meeting with a close associate of Lewis Hamilton didn’t go smoothly, describing it as “tense” and emotionally challenging due to the pressure to make a good impression.