Antonelli claims first F1 podium at Canadian GP

Andrea Kimi Antonelli was left with goosebumps after taking his maiden Formula 1 podium at the Canadian Grand Prix on Sunday. 

The 18-year-old rookie finished third at Circuit Gilles Villeneuve with a mature drive, despite being pressed by championship leader Oscar Piastri for much of the latter stages.

Antonelli, who joined race winner and team-mate George Russell on the podium, plus Max Verstappen, has impressed with numerous strong performances this year – but Montreal was his best yet.

When asked about the podium, Antonelli said: “It meant a lot, especially after a difficult triple-header on my side. It definitely took some confidence away, but this was the best way to bounce back. 

“I was just hoping for the race to finish, to be honest. I was even looking at the screen, counting the laps because it was very stressful.

“The last few laps were a struggle, especially seeing Oscar getting closer and closer in the DRS range. At one point, he even tried to attempt the overtake in Turn 1. It took a lot of effort.

“I’m still aware there’s a lot of work to do, especially when it comes to qualifying – trying to be quicker at the beginning of the session. But we’re on a good path.

“The team is doing a great job. Also, with George, he’s helping me to push myself even further.

“There’s a really good dynamic in the team. Hopefully, we can carry this momentum into the next few races.”

This podium comes just 10 grands prix into Antonelli’s F1 career, having replaced Lewis Hamilton at the start of the year. 

When asked how it felt to stand on the podium, the Italian added: “It was much better than what I imagined. Hearing the crowd while walking onto the podium – I had massive goosebumps.

“That is definitely a moment I will remember for a very long time. It gives you a boost, results like this, and this feeling, you can’t buy. It’s an amazing feeling and you just want more.

George Russell, Mercedes, Andrea Kimi Antonelli, Mercedes

Photo by: James Sutton / Motorsport Images via Getty Images

“I think the goal now is to try to keep the same momentum and try to achieve more podiums – and hopefully, maybe the first win. You never know.”

Antonelli paid tribute to Russell’s contribution in helping him step up to F1, while also saying he takes inspiration from Verstappen as the world champion also joined the series as a teenager in 2015.

“Racing in F1 with the 19 other best drivers on the grid gives you a lot of motivation,” he said. “Having the chance to race at your best and show what you’re capable of is a great boost.

“Of course, seeing what Max has done over the years – especially in his rookie years – was quite astonishing. So definitely he’s a model who I get inspired by.

“But at the end, racing against the best is a great chance. And having someone like George as a team-mate really helps you improve.

“It’s also down to George – this result – because he has helped me during this first part of the season to develop and push myself even further.”

Max Verstappen, Red Bull Racing, Andrea Kimi Antonelli, Mercedes

Photo by: James Sutton / Motorsport Images via Getty Images

Verstappen, who was just 17-years-old when he contested his first F1 session in FP1 at the 2014 Japanese Grand Prix, says Antonelli has a bright future ahead of him.

“For me, it’s not a surprise,” said the reigning, four-time world champion. “I knew Kimi coming up through the karting ranks – people were already saying great things. So I was keeping an eye on him.

“What’s impressive is he’s naturally quick. What I like is his level-headed, calm approach. Those are great qualities to have. I was never in doubt that the podium would come this year.

“I’m very happy that it happened for him. It gives you more confidence. It’s a nice boost. And it will only get better.

“You’re in your rookie season – there are so many things that will come at you. You learn from the weaker races, you learn from the good ones. In the coming years, for sure, we’ll see a lot more of Kimi.”