P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Toto Wolff believes Kimi Antonelli is starting to prove his worth after being “parachuted” into Mercedes.
Toto Wolff believes that Kimi Antonelli is meeting his F1 expectations in a strong manner after his remarkable recovery in Las Vegas and his subsequent transition into the world of Grand Prix racing.
During the Las Vegas race, Antonelli showcased his talent by starting 17th on soft tires, switching to hard tires under the virtual safety car, and maneuvering his way to fourth place as he exhibited remarkable skills and determination.
Antonelli surprised many by opting for a one-stop strategy and securing a third-place finish, following a penalty that moved him down from second, showing impressive racing prowess and resilience.
With Antonelli’s recent string of podium finishes in the Americas, Wolff expressed satisfaction with the progress of the 19-year-old protege, emphasizing that the initial challenges were expected and part of his developmental journey.
Looking ahead to the 2026 season, Wolff anticipates a different experience for Antonelli with increased maturity and a solid foundation from this year’s learnings, expressing confidence in the young driver’s future prospects.
Acknowledging the ups and downs that come with a rookie season, Wolff remains steadfast in his support for Antonelli, emphasizing the continuous development that lies ahead and the exciting performances fans can expect from him in the upcoming years.
