Andrea Kimi Antonelli Secures Maiden F1 Podium at Canadian Grand Prix
Andrea Kimi Antonelli, the 18-year-old rookie for Mercedes, achieved a significant milestone by finishing third at the Canadian Grand Prix on Sunday, marking his first podium in Formula 1 just ten races into his career. The race, held at Circuit Gilles Villeneuve, saw Antonelli fend off challenges from championship leader Oscar Piastri, demonstrating remarkable poise under pressure.
Race winner George Russell led the team’s charge, while Max Verstappen completed the podium. Antonelli’s performance was particularly impressive given that he was pressured throughout the latter stages of the race.
Reflecting on his achievement, Antonelli stated, “This meant a lot, especially after a difficult triple-header. I was counting the laps because it was very stressful.” He highlighted the intensity of the final laps, as Piastri attempted an overtake at Turn 1.
Antonelli acknowledged the support from his team and Russell, emphasizing, “The team is doing a great job. There’s a really good dynamic, and I hope we can carry this momentum into the next few races.”
In the context of his rookie season, Antonelli expressed excitement about the podium, admitting it felt better than he had imagined, particularly as he absorbed the atmosphere of the event. “This feeling is amazing, and you just want more,” he noted.
Verstappen, a four-time world champion who also began his F1 journey as a teenager, praised Antonelli’s potential, saying, “I knew Kimi coming up through the karting ranks. He’s naturally quick, and his calm approach is impressive. I had no doubt he would reach the podium this year.”
With this podium finish, Antonelli aims to continue his upward trajectory in the sport. “The goal now is to keep the same momentum and hopefully achieve more podiums or maybe a win,” he concluded.
This result not only reinforces Antonelli’s status as a rising star but also highlights Mercedes’ strong performance this season.
