Kimi Antonelli Becomes Youngest F1 World Champion at Mexico City
Kimi Antonelli became the youngest Formula 1 world champion at age 20, ending a 73-year wait for an Italian winner. Guenther Steiner predicts a Ferrari move in about 10 years, but Antonelli remains loyal to Mercedes.
Kimi Antonelli became the youngest Formula 1 world champion on November 1, securing his title at the Mexico City Grand Prix. The 20-year-old Italian ended a 73-year wait for an Italian winner, surpassing Alberto Ascari’s 1953 record. Guenther Steiner, former Haas boss and current Tech3 MotoGP team principal, believes Antonelli will eventually drive for Ferrari but insists the timeline is long. "It will be maybe 10 years out," Steiner told RacingNews365, rejecting short-term speculation about a transfer. He argues that Ferrari will actively pursue the young driver because of his talent and nationality.
A loyalty to Mercedes
Antonelli has firmly rejected immediate moves to Maranello, stating he is happy with Mercedes because they gave him his opportunity when he was a child. "I feel like I have so much to give back to them," he said, emphasizing his commitment to the Silver Arrows. The driver acknowledged that Italians are often overly excited about such transfers, noting that talk of a Ferrari switch is inevitable given the brand’s status. He described his current situation as perfect, refusing to entertain rumors that he might leave before his contract matures. This stance contrasts sharply with the public expectation that an Italian champion must drive for an Italian team.
Steiner views the delay as natural for a 20-year-old who just won his first title. He claims it is the only not-so-perfect thing for Italy that an Italian champion does not currently drive for Ferrari. However, he predicts this will change because Ferrari would welcome Antonelli with open arms if he chose to go. "He could go tomorrow if he wants," Steiner added, placing the decision entirely in Antonelli’s hands. The former Haas boss sees this period as the beginning of the Antonelli era under new regulations. He believes Mercedes is strong but not dominating, which forces Antonelli to win based on skill rather than just having the best machine. Steiner is confident Antonelli will collect several more championships before any potential switch occurs.
