Kimi Antonelli, the rising Italian star, is set to make his full-time Formula One debut in 2025 with Mercedes, replacing Lewis Hamilton, who will be joining Ferrari. At just 18 years old, Antonelli will be the youngest rookie to step into the F1 spotlight with a top-tier team, making his journey one of the most anticipated in recent years. However, stepping into the shoes of a seven-time world champion comes with immense pressure, and Hamilton himself has taken the time to offer valuable advice to the young driver on how to navigate the intense world of F1.
Hamilton, an idol to many young talents including Antonelli, shared his insights during the Italian GP weekend, where Antonelli made his first appearance in an official practice session with Mercedes. Despite a promising run, the session ended with Antonelli crashing, leaving him visibly disappointed. However, Hamilton saw beyond the setback, praising the rookie’s talent and offering words of wisdom that could define Antonelli’s career trajectory.
“Take Your Time and Keep Your Circle Tight”
Hamilton’s advice was simple yet profound: take your time. The Briton stressed the importance of being patient and not rushing the process. He emphasized that Antonelli should keep his family close and stay away from social media, calling it one of the “worst things” that could derail a young driver’s focus. Hamilton highlighted the dangers of reading news and stories about oneself, as they can often distort reality and negatively impact performance.
“There’s not really a lot I can say to him except for just take your time… keep your family very, very close, stay off social media—that’s one of the worst things… don’t read the news, don’t read the stories.”
Hamilton understands the enormous pressure of joining a powerhouse like Mercedes at such a young age. He acknowledged that Antonelli, like any ambitious driver, would be eager to impress and prove his worth immediately. However, Hamilton cautioned him against rushing to meet expectations, advising him to let his talent shine gradually as he adapts to the demands of the sport.
“It’s a Lot for Young Shoulders”
Hamilton, reflecting on his own journey, noted that being thrust into the spotlight can be overwhelming, especially when joining a team with a legacy like Mercedes. He reassured Antonelli that there’s no need to prove everything all at once; instead, he should focus on building up his confidence and skills slowly. Hamilton believes that if Antonelli remains dedicated and patient, his talent will naturally come to the forefront over time.
“It’s a lot for his young shoulders to join such a big team and you want to excel so much; you want to impress so much and show how good you are, but you’ve got time. Slowly build up into it; everyone will see how good you are over time.”
A Path to Success Beyond Fame
Hamilton’s message to Antonelli is clear: success in Formula One isn’t about immediate fame but about building a sustainable career. By staying grounded, keeping loved ones close, and focusing solely on his craft, Antonelli has the opportunity to establish himself as a formidable force on the grid. Hamilton’s seasoned advice highlights the importance of mental resilience and strategic growth, vital components for any young driver aiming to leave a lasting mark in F1.
As Antonelli prepares to embark on this challenging journey, Hamilton’s counsel could prove invaluable, helping him navigate the intense world of Formula One with wisdom, patience, and unwavering focus.
