Jun.1 (GMM) Kimi Antonelli says his rivals now view him in another way after his outstanding begin to the 2026 season.
The 19-year-old Mercedes driver, who comfortably leads the world championship after profitable 4 of the opening 5 races, was honoured with the celebrated Lorenzo Bandini Trophy in Brisighella on Friday.
1000’s of followers packed the small Italian city to welcome the championship chief.
“There are such a lot of individuals right here for me – I wasn’t anticipating such a welcome,” he beamed.
“Pondering of the names who’ve acquired this earlier than me, like Schumacher and Hamilton, makes it all of the extra emotional.”
However regardless of opening a 43-point championship lead, Antonelli insisted it’s too early to get carried away.
“The season continues to be lengthy, we all know that,” he mentioned.
“I’m pleased as a result of the crew is doing nice, and I need to repay their efforts by giving my all.”
The Italian additionally addressed the rising rivalry with teammate George Russell, which flared up throughout the Canadian GP weekend. “The problem with Russell throughout the season can be robust, however we don’t need to get into robust clashes that may put the crew in issue,” Antonelli mentioned.
“I spoke to Toto Wolff in regards to the battle between Hamilton and Rosberg in 2016. He instructed me the nice and the unhealthy, the issues we mustn’t repeat. As a result of the crew stays the precedence.”
Antonelli admitted his performances have already modified how rivals view him.
“I do know they have a look at me with respect now, as a result of I’ve proven what I’m able to,” he mentioned.
“I attempt to ship a transparent message as a result of I need to keep forward – that’s the objective.”
The Mercedes driver additionally rejected recommendations that his success has modified his character.
“I’m simply the way in which you see me, and I don’t need to change that,” he mentioned. “Clearly, on the monitor, issues are utterly completely different.”
“The angel face is simply seen off the monitor. As a result of F1 is a tank stuffed with sharks – you both eat otherwise you’re eaten.”
Antonelli additionally revealed he has developed a friendship with Max Verstappen away from the circuit. “We speak about GT, F1, but additionally about our non-public lives, our issues,” he mentioned.
“In the end, exterior the paddock, we’re simply regular guys.”
The Italian was additionally requested about Ferrari, with many in his house nation dreaming of seeing him someday in purple.
“However now I’m a Mercedes driver and I’m extremely pleased right here,” Antonelli replied. “The crew gave me an enormous alternative as a child, supported me all through my complete journey, and I really feel a duty to offer my all for them.”
“I owe it to the crew and need to win as a lot as attainable with Mercedes. I spoke with the crew, they usually need to proceed working with me sooner or later – not simply subsequent yr. However for that to occur, I have to carry out nicely.
“They in all probability plan to proceed working with me past 2026, however I have to ship outcomes individually. After which we’ll see.”
