Toto Wolff Gives "Underwhelming" Assessment of Kimi Antonelli's Italian GP Performance

Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff expressed disappointment with Kimi Antonelli's performance at the Italian Grand Prix, despite maintaining faith in his long-term potential.

Why it matters

Antonelli, a highly-touted Mercedes junior driver, is enduring a challenging rookie F1 season. Wolff's unusually critical remarks highlight growing concerns about Antonelli's consistency and ability to avoid mistakes, especially in crucial moments.

The big picture

Antonelli finished ninth, behind Williams' Alex Albon and Sauber's Gabriel Bortoleto. This result, coupled with a difficult Friday practice where he beached his car in the gravel, painted a picture of an "underwhelming" weekend.

• Performance gap: Antonelli finished four positions and 27 seconds behind his Mercedes teammate George Russell.
• Previous incidents: At Zandvoort, Antonelli's attempt to overtake Charles Leclerc resulted in both drivers' retirement.

What Wolff said

Wolff did not mince words when discussing Antonelli's race at Monza. "Underwhelming this weekend, underwhelming," he told media outlets. "He can't put the car in the gravel bed and then to expect to be there. All of the race was underwhelming."

Despite the criticism, Wolff reiterated his support: "Doesn't change anything on my support and confidence in his future, because I believe he's going to be very, very, very good. But, today was underwhelming."

Wolff also pointed to Antonelli losing time against Alpine's Pierre Gasly, emphasizing the need for him to avoid such distractions. "Kimi shouldn't lose even a second with Gasly."

What's next

Mercedes aims to help Antonelli overcome these setbacks as they look toward the F1 2026 season with new regulations. Wolff stressed the need to "free him up, freeing him up. Drive." He added that Antonelli possesses "unbelievable ability and natural talent," but needs to "get rid of the ballast" of past mistakes and pressure. Antonelli currently sits eighth in the Drivers' Championship.