Kimi Antonelli acknowledged that he bears extra pressure for being Italian in Formula 1, but stated that he intends to turn that scrutiny into motivation. The country has not produced a World Drivers’ Champion in the sport since Alberto Ascari in 1953.
In an interview with sponsors, Antonelli was asked about the meaning of the number 73 and at first did not understand the reference. After being pointed toward the fact that it signified the period since the last Italian title, the driver quickly linked the number to Ascari.
“Ah! An Italian driver. Since the last Italian World Champion, Alberto Ascari. Yes, of course. Okay, okay,” Antonelli replied when he understood the question. Ascari claimed the titles in 1952 and 1953, remaining the last Italian to win the Drivers’ Championship.
The expectations surrounding Antonelli are also tied to the fervor of Italian fans and the country’s historical weight in F1. The young driver acknowledged that this combination heightens the pressure, especially because Italians can quickly raise their hopes: “Of course this comes with a little extra pressure, but I’ve been making the most of it,” he said.
Rather than trying to distance himself from this responsibility, Antonelli explained that he is working to shift his perception of the pressure: “What I’ve also been trying to do is embrace the pressure and really shine under pressure,” he added.
The Italian believes that this pressure can be viewed positively, especially when it signifies the expectation that he can achieve great results: “I’ve seen this as something positive, not negative. I feel that when you’re under pressure, it means you know you can do something very good, and if you manage it, it’s also highly satisfying,” concluded Antonelli.
Thus, while Italy continues to await a new World Drivers’ Champion after 73 years, Antonelli shows no sign of dodging the weight of that history. The young driver prefers to view the expectation as an opportunity to demonstrate his potential in Formula 1.
