Kimi Antonelli leads the Formula 1 World Championship and has received high praise from Stefano Domenicali: The series boss highlights one quality in particular
Formula 1 CEO Stefano Domenicali has described championship leader Kimi Antonelli as a “real asset” to the “premier class” of motorsport. What is “truly remarkable” about Antonelli is his “great openness” and how he interacts with others, Domenicali said at a press conference.
“Kimi brings a breath of fresh air with his personality. On the track, he has also proven how strong he is. He’s a very different kind of guy, but extremely focused,” Domenicali explained.
In fact, Antonelli has so far managed to withstand the mounting pressure in the 2026 Formula 1 season. And he’s doing so at just 19 years old and in his second year in the championship. That earns the team principal’s admiration.
“Last year, Kimi had to take a lot of criticism. But Toto Wolff and the [Mercedes] team did an excellent job of protecting him, in my view,” said Domenicali.
“We mustn’t forget, either, that without the two retirements due to technical failures [in Barcelona and at Silverstone], his lead in the World Championship would be even greater. That shows just how consistent and solid his performance has been so far. He’s one of the most exciting talents in Formula 1 today.”
Thanks to Antonelli: A New Wave of Formula 1 Enthusiasm in Italy
Above all, Antonelli is thrilling fans in his home country of Italy, where Ferrari is traditionally held in particularly high esteem. Now, with Antonelli, an Italian driver is once again in the spotlight.
“This is of great significance to Italian fans,” said Domenicali. “It’s been a long time since an Italian driver has won something truly big. Everyone knows that. That’s why Kimi is opening up a whole new perspective.”
But will Antonelli be able to maintain all these qualities when the battle for the world championship title intensifies after the summer break? For now, Antonelli’s relationship with other drivers is “excellent,” said Domenicali. “Of course, that could change once the world championship is on the line. But that’s part of the sport.”
