Chandhok: Mercedes junior path was 'best thing' for Antonelli

Former F1 driver and Sky Sports pundit Karun Chandhok believes Kimi Antonelli's path through Mercedes' junior programme rather than Ferrari's was the "best thing" his father Marco could have done. The 20-year-old is currently dominating the 2026 season, with seven wins including his home Italian Grand Prix, and holds a 66-point lead over Mercedes teammate George Russell.

Why it matters:

Antonelli replaced Lewis Hamilton at Mercedes in 2025 and has since become the youngest driver to lead the standings. Chandhok argues that had Antonelli been part of Ferrari's junior programme, the pressure of being an Italian Ferrari driver would have been "unbelievable." The decision to go with Mercedes has allowed him to develop without that weight.

The details:

• Chandhok reflected on Antonelli's journey during the Sky Sports F1 Show, praising Marco Antonelli's choice.
• "By not making him a Ferrari junior... and going down the Mercedes path is actually the best thing that Marco Antonelli's done for his son," Chandhok said.
• He noted that Mercedes have done a "fantastic job" of nurturing Antonelli, and that seeing the family after the Monza win, they looked "delighted."
• Chandhok also expressed hope that in 10-15 years, after Antonelli has achieved a lot, he might eventually become a Ferrari driver. "It'll be great for Ferrari to have him one day, but I think it's good now for him to have his early years as not a Ferrari driver."

What's next:

Antonelli heads to the Spanish Grand Prix in Madrid with a commanding lead. While a future Ferrari move remains speculation, Chandhok believes the current path is the right one for the young Italian's long-term success.