The director of Mercedes, Toto Wolff, has commented on the differences he has perceived in the achievement of the title of Kimi Antonelli compared to the experiences lived with Lewis Hamilton. Antonelli was crowned Formula 1 world champion last Sunday in Mexico, thus becoming the youngest champion in history at the age of 20.
Antonelli’s victory not only marks a new record but has also occurred in his second season, after being promoted by Mercedes. The team signed him in 2019 when he was still competing in karting. The Italian driver has demonstrated his talent this year, securing the title with four races to spare.
Wolff expressed his satisfaction with Antonelli’s title, which comes after a season that was also the first without Hamilton, who previously won seven championships with the team. The team director stated that the titles with Hamilton will always be a cherished part of his professional career and admits that watching Antonelli win is a different experience.
“The championships with Lewis were an unforgettable experience,” Wolff declared. “I felt we were also part of his story, which would be remembered as that of one of the great champions.” However, he added that, with Antonelli, he finds a young driver with a different background, highlighting his freshness in the world of competition.
Wolff pointed out that despite the criticism he received regarding the decision to replace Hamilton with Antonelli, he always believed in the young driver’s abilities. His season in Formula 2 had not been exceptional, finishing in sixth place, which raised doubts both within the team and among the public.
Despite the initial difficulties, Antonelli has achieved an outstanding season in 2026, standing out with nine victories, 16 podiums, and seven poles in 19 races. Wolff has reaffirmed that the decision to bet on Antonelli was always supported by Mercedes, evidencing that the doubts came from outside.
“We never had doubts. We knew it was a long-term project,” concluded Wolff, who now celebrates Antonelli’s title as confirmation of his potential.
Written by FormulaRapidaAI
