Kimi Antonelli sets his sights on his second Formula 1 season in 2026 with the Mercedes-AMG Petronas F1 Team after an impressive, learning-heavy rookie campaign.
The Italian driver placed 7th in the 2025 Drivers’ Standings with 150 points, making him the highest-placed rookie. His campaign includes 15 Grand Prix point finishes, three podiums, a maiden Sprint pole position, and numerous record-breaking moments, including becoming the youngest driver ever to lead an F1 race at 18.
Though his season also included challenges, particularly throughout mid-season, as Kimi Antonelli suffered 4 DNFs, made rookie mistakes, and experienced the pressure of driving for a top team.
With a mix of highs and lows, Antonelli heads into the 2026 F1 season with renewed confidence and determination.
Antonelli embraces 2026 F1 changes
Speaking at the Mercedes-AMG F1 Team season launch, Kimi Antonelli expressed his excitement for the upcoming season as the sport undergoes major 2026 regulatory changes.
“Yeah, I’m very, very excited. Of course, last year was a massive learning experience. And definitely this year is going to be a new opportunity for everyone. It’s completely something completely new,” he said.
Mercedes’ new W17 first hit the track in Silverstone before continuing testing at the 2026 F1 Barcelona Shakedown. Early signs from the Shakedown have been encouraging, with the Mercedes duo of Antonelli and George Russell setting the fastest times on Days 3 and 4.
“Obviously, we got the chance to drive the car in Silverstone and Barcelona and, you know, it was a really good test,” noted Antonelli. “Especially, you know, we learn a lot about the car as drivers and as a team, you know, because obviously it’s completely new and there’s so much to learn and to discover still. But yeah, really looking forward to this season. I mean, definitely I’ve experienced a lot last year and definitely feel more prepared ahead of 2026.”
Inside the W17
When asked about how the 2026 F1 W17 compares to the 2025 W16, Antonelli highlighted that the new car feels different, but in a positive way, describing it as “fun” and “nice” to drive.
“Yeah, definitely it felt quite different. But I would say it felt different in a nicer way. Obviously, George explained a lot. But the car, it does feel quite a bit lighter, a bit more agile and it’s shorter as well. And definitely it’s good fun. And the power unit is, especially when you get the 350 kilowatts, it gives you, you know, a good kick. So it feels quick,” he said, explaining the new W17 features.
“I mean, I’m not going to lie, the first lap, I went full throttle. I kind of, you know, it didn’t scare, but it was like, wow, you know, it feels fast, especially also with the active aero. Obviously, we got the front wing as well this year, which is not as potent as the rear wing, but you do feel it a bit. But I have to be honest, it’s been a lot of fun to drive and really cannot wait to hit the track back in Bahrain.”
The 2026 F1 Pre-Season Testing at the Bahrain International Circuit is set to take place from February 11-13 and 18-20, giving teams the final chance to prepare for the season-opener in Melbourne.
