Lewis Hamilton gave a few words of crucial advice to Kimi Antonelli before the Italian makes his full-time F1 debut in 2025.
Andrea Kimi Antonelli will step up to Formula One next season, replacing Lewis Hamilton at Mercedes, as announced by the team during the Italian GP.
The 18-year-old will partner with George Russell after Hamilton moves to Ferrari in 2025.
Hamilton, an idol for many young talents, including Antonelli, offers valuable advice to help him succeed as the youngest rookie in F1 with Mercedes.
Mercedes confirmed that Kimi Antonelli would drive in the opening practice session of the Italian GP instead of George Russell. Although the Italian racer was in the middle of his Formula 2 campaign, he received a call to make his debut in the practice session.
Unfortunately, he crashed during the session. While Lewis Hamilton discussed various topics about the race, Antonelli wisely observed the conversations.
After the crash, Antonelli appeared disappointed, but his performance wasn’t all bad, as Hamilton praised him. The Briton advised the 18-year-old, who will step into his shoes in 2025, offering key insights. He explained that there isn’t much he can say to Antonelli except to take his time to adapt with the things.
Hamilton emphasized the importance of keeping his family very close and staying off social media, describing it as one of the worst things. The Briton also advised Antonelli not to read the news or any stories about himself, as they could negatively impact his 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.
Lewis Hamilton suggested.
Sir Lewis Hamilton asked what advise he would give Kimi Antonelli :
“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 thats one of the worst things…dont read the news. dont read the stories.” 🥺… pic.twitter.com/aNps04fE5j
— sim (@sim3744) September 27, 2024
Lewis Hamilton claims Mercedes drive ‘a lot’ on young shoulders of Kimi Antonelli
Lewis Hamilton explained that joining a major team like Mercedes is a significant challenge for someone as young as Antonelli. He understands that the 18-year-old wants to do well and impress everyone quickly, showcasing his talent. However, the Briton reassured him that there’s no rush. He encouraged Antonelli to take his time and gradually adjust to the pressures of the role. Over time, people will recognize his skills and see just how talented he is as a driver.
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.
Lewis Hamilton explained.
Therefore, Hamilton’s message to Kimi Antonelli highlighted the importance of patience and dedication in the journey to success. As a rookie joining a renowned team like Mercedes, Antonelli must focus on developing his skills over time rather than seeking fame. By prioritizing longevity in his career, he can build a solid foundation for lasting achievements in Formula 1.
