Andrea Kimi Antonelli has shone in the first four races of the season as one of the best new drivers in Formula 1. The 18-year-old Italian has already finished in the points three times and is widely praised for his mature driving style and his rare mistakes. According to Antonelli, his success in the premier class is partly due to mentor Valtteri Bottas, who in turn is very impressed with this young protégé.
“Valtteri (Bottas) helps me a lot; he’s a fantastic mentor,” Antonelli stated. “Performing at this level is simply not easy.” Bottas, who was present at the same interview, explained how his Italian pupil knows how to suppress his urge to prove himself at the right moments. “I’m very impressed,” said the proud Finn. Bottas returned to Mercedes this year – after three years with the Sauber team – as a test and reserve driver. In the past, he has won ten Grand Prix with the Germans.
Sharing the Champagne
“He (Antonelli) rarely makes mistakes, which is not easy in your first year in Formula 1,” he continued his praise. “Finding the balance between how much you want to prove yourself and how much leeway you need to give yourself to learn is tricky, but so far, he’s doing an excellent job. Moreover, his feedback to the team is getting better – that’s natural progression. I would like to say: you’re doing well, keep it up,” Bottas addressed Antonelli.
The young Mercedes driver is still dreaming of his first podium in Formula 1. “If you finish on the podium in Miami, it’s going to be tough – you’re not old enough to drink champagne there,” the interviewer joked. “That’s true, in America you have to be twenty-one to drink,” Antonelli responded disappointedly. “You know what I’ll do? I’ll take Valtteri Bottas up on the podium – he can then drink my champagne,” he added with a grin. “I’ll spray it around a bit, and then Valtteri will empty the whole bottle.” Bottas found Antonelli’s plans amusing: “Sounds like a great plan,” he said dryly.
