Due to a regulation implemented in response to Max Verstappen, Kimi Antonelli might have to delay his Formula 1 debut.
Max Verstappen has offered advice to Mercedes junior Andrea Kimi Antonelli as he progresses through the junior categories in the hope of a Formula 1 seat in future.
The 17-year-old is known to be one of the candidates to replace Lewis Hamilton at Mercedes next season, though the team are looking to sign Verstappen from Red Bull if the opportunity arises, though he remains under contract with the reigning World Champions until 2028.
Max Verstappen offers ‘very talented’ Kimi Antonelli F1 advice: ‘Make mistakes’
Additional reporting by Sam Cooper
Verstappen became the youngest ever Formula 1 driver when he made his debut with Toro Rosso back in 2015, and the FIA has since introduced a minimum age drivers can be eligible to race in the top series, of 18.
Although Antonelli won’t turn that age until August, his exceptional performance in junior racing has propelled him directly from Formula 4 to Formula 2. In contrast, Verstappen had only experienced Formula 3 cars before making the leap to Formula 1.
He urged the Italian to embrace and learn from the mistakes he makes while he is still young, just as he did when he was younger. The reason being that he recognizes the Italian as an incredibly gifted driver in the making.
Verstappen expressed his hope that Antonelli wouldn’t encounter anything overly daunting. He acknowledged Antonelli’s novice status and emphasized that there is still much for him to grasp and acquire. Verstappen shared his perspective on entering the Formula 1 paddock as a teenager and was asked if he had any guidance for Antonelli.
For me, the most significant achievement was completing an entire race distance.
During my time in F3, the races lasted for about 35 minutes, which made them quite intricate and demanding.
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However, there is so much to learn from experiencing both the good and bad moments, overcoming challenges, and facing difficult weekends when things just don’t seem to go your way.
On one hand, don’t overanalyze it. On the other hand, simply release it and don’t dwell on it too much.
If you’re exceptionally skilled, like Kimi clearly is, there’s no need to be overly concerned when you make mistakes.
“Making mistakes is inevitable. Ideally, it’s better to make those mistakes when you’re not competing for championships. Fortunately, I was fortunate enough to have that opportunity when I started at Toro Rosso. Being under less scrutiny allowed me to make occasional silly mistakes without constant scrutiny.”
However, it is crucial to set goals for yourself because constantly telling yourself that you cannot accomplish certain tasks will hinder your growth. You can only truly progress by setting goals, taking action, and moving forward.
Overall, as I mature and develop as an individual, I have also gained a better understanding of my personal desires outside of racing. Additionally, my knowledge and comprehension of the mechanics and operation of a racing car has steadily improved with time.
Naturally, cars undergo changes over time, but when you stick with a specific team, you eventually become familiar with what works and what doesn’t.
The more time you spend with race engineers and people of the same race who fine-tune your car and provide support, the more you absorb their knowledge and skills.
However, don’t overanalyze it. Simply allow it to unfold naturally. When you’re at such a young age, concentrate on going as swiftly as possible, learn from your errors, achieve favorable race outcomes, and avoid dwelling on it excessively.
You have the ability to clarify all of this, but at that moment, you are unaware, correct?
“So basically, you just need to gradually get used to it, and once you have a supportive team of good people around you, they will guide you through the process.”
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