Antonelli:Racing in F1 is Like Swimming with Sharks
Young Italian driver Kimi Antonelli made his Formula 1 debut this year with the Mercedes team. At just 18 years old, he has already claimed a podium finish at the Canadian Grand Prix. The rising star dreams of becoming a world champion, following in the footsteps of his legendary compatriot Alberto Ascari.
"Racing in Formula 1 is like swimming in a sea full of sharks," Antonelli said in an interview with Sette, a Milan-based magazine, as he reflected on the first half of his debut season. "If you make a mistake, they'll eat you alive."
Antonelli also spoke briefly about his personal life, particularly his relationship with Eliška Bábíčková, a Czech karting driver and 2023 Italian karting champion. "She understands how much time this job demands and the sacrifices that come with it. When she comes to the circuit to support me, it gives me a huge boost," he shared.
Speaking about his inspirations outside motorsport, Antonelli highlighted fellow Italian Jannik Sinner, the tennis star who recently won the prestigious Wimbledon title.
Among his Formula 1 heroes, Antonelli named Ayrton Senna: "I’d ask him how he managed to overcome the fear of crashing and still drive even faster."
He also mentioned nine-time world champion and Italian MotoGP legend Valentino Rossi as a major role model. "I admire his ability to surround himself with the right people and to identify those who can help him achieve the best possible results on track," Antonelli concluded.
