Kimi Antonelli Handed Praise from Major Rival: 'An Asset for F1'

Kimi Antonelli's remarkable 2026 season has drawn rare praise from a rival team principal, with McLaren's Andrea Stella describing the Mercedes driver as an 'asset for F1'. The Italian holds an 81-point championship lead after eight wins, putting him on the verge of a maiden title.

Why it matters:

Antonelli's rapid rise has shifted F1's competitive narrative. After a challenging rookie year, his consistency and speed have made him the clear title favourite, and his success is resonating strongly in Italy, where Ferrari's long drought has left fans craving a homegrown champion.

The details:

• Stella: "He's doing so well. Deservedly, he's leading the drivers' championship. Every time I hear from him, I see his stance, he's growing day by day." He joked he would give Antonelli wrong advice because McLaren are chasing him.
• Alpine's Flavio Briatore: "In this moment in Italy you have two big names – Sinner and Kimi. Kimi takes away the fans from Ferrari as well, little by little. No mistakes, very strong, very clear and still very young."
• Briatore added that having a potential champion like Antonelli is good for F1 and Italy, alongside tennis star Jannik Sinner.

The big picture:

Antonelli's emergence comes as Ferrari continues to search for its first drivers' title since 2008. His success with Mercedes gives Italy a new hero, potentially shifting national allegiance. With an 81-point cushion and the campaign entering its final third, the championship is his to lose.

What's next:

All eyes will be on how Antonelli handles the pressure in the closing races. If he maintains his current form, he could secure Mercedes' first drivers' title since 2023 and cement his status as F1's newest superstar.