The 19-year-old championship leader explains how his debut season has helped him grow. He faces the April break with training and simulator work. His goal in Miami is to return to Japan's level, and his relationship with Russell is "strong and respectful."
The Formula 1 championship leader is 19 years old, and his name is Kimi Antonelli. The Italian from Mercedes faces the Miami Grand Prix with the peace of mind that comes from results: two consecutive wins in China and Japan have placed him nine points ahead of his teammate George Russell, making him the youngest leader in the history of the category.
In an interview with a small group of media, Antonelli explained what has been the key to his evolution: "Overall, I feel stronger, I feel more in control of the situation. Having gone to every circuit last year is helping me a lot this season, also having completed full race weekends allows me to know better what to expect, how to move, and manage myself," he stated.
The Italian acknowledges that the start of the season has been "better than we all anticipated and expected, at least on my part" and that generates different expectations: "They are automatically a little different now but I'm still trying to keep the same mindset as in the first three races: focus on what I have to do, on the process, and not think about the long term final result."
Antonelli has taken advantage of the five-week April break to stay connected: "As soon as I got home after Japan, I got on my simulator, I did a tire test for Pirelli a few days ago, and I also drove a GT. I've tried to stay active and also reflect on why the weekends went well, what I did right, and where I could have improved," he stated.
When asked about his goals for Miami, the Italian did not hesitate: "To get back where we left off in Japan, or even come back stronger. The feelings are good, the car is very competitive, so I hope to be able to continue with this level of performance," he pointed out.
Regarding his relationship with Russell, Antonelli was clear: "The relationship is very strong and hasn't changed, there is a lot of respect between us, and we have been working very well so far. There is a very good dynamic in the team," he assured.
The Italian acknowledges that he now feels like a "title contender": "That's what I'm here for. I want to race to win, to win races and championships. This year is a huge opportunity for everyone, especially for George and me, because we have a very strong car and we don't want to waste it."
There is also team awareness: "We know it's very important to keep a good dynamic in the team, because everyone has their individual goals, but at the same time, we want to help the team achieve the Constructors' Championship. I think our relationship is strong and will remain so for the rest of the year," he concluded.
Antonelli arrives in Miami after an intense preparation. The break felt too long for him, but he left a phrase that shows how he feels: "I'm really looking forward to getting back on track," he closed.