Toto Wolff Praises Kimi Antonelli as an F1 Role Model

Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff has praised Kimi Antonelli as a role model for the next generation of Formula One drivers while criticising what he described as entitled and selfish behaviour among some competitors on the grid.

Wolff believes Antonelli represents a new approach to modern Formula One, built around humility, integrity, loyalty and respect rather than winning at all costs. His remarks came after the 20-year-old Italian secured his first world championship in Mexico City, becoming the youngest champion in the sport’s history after only his second season.

Wolff Says the ‘Selfish’ Racing Driver Model Is Dead

Wolff described Antonelli’s attitude and conduct as a significant example for other drivers, contrasting his approach with competitors who frequently complain over team radio or become involved in incidents on the track.

“This notion of win at all costs, selfish, opportunistic, ruthless for your own benefit, that model of racing driver has died. We have a new champion that represents values,” Wolff said.

He highlighted the Italian’s humility, integrity, loyalty and respect, saying the young champion should be an example not only for aspiring racers but also for established drivers.

“He should be a role model for the few entitled ones in Formula One. The endless moaners on the radio. The ones that complain, the ones that crash. Look at this kid of 20 years and then think what you can do in order to improve. That’s the message to these kids.”

Wolff did not identify any particular drivers as the targets of his criticism. However, his comments made clear that he believes some competitors could learn from Antonelli’s conduct and approach to racing.

Kimi Antonelli Becomes the Youngest F1 World Champion

Antonelli secured the championship with a third-place finish in Mexico City on Sunday. At 20 years old, he achieved the milestone in just his second season in Formula One.

The Italian’s performances throughout the season, combined with his enthusiasm and approach to competition, attracted praise from several established figures in the sport. Fellow world champions Lewis Hamilton, Max Verstappen and Lando Norris also congratulated the young driver after he defeated experienced competitors to claim the title.

His Mercedes teammate George Russell, who was also beaten by Antonelli over the season, acknowledged the Italian’s honest and fair approach to racing.

Antonelli has been part of the Mercedes programme since he was 12, making his championship victory an important milestone for both the driver and the team.

Wolff Says Antonelli Represents the Future of Formula One

Wolff also said Antonelli’s character reflects the kind of driver that senior figures in Formula One want to see competing in the sport. He referred to Formula One chief executive Stefano Domenicali and FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem while explaining why the Italian’s qualities matter beyond his on-track performance.

“That is how the FIA, that Mohammed, that Stefano, that I would want to see racing drivers in the future,” Wolff said.

He added that talent alone should not define a successful racing driver, arguing that personal conduct and respect for others are equally important.

“That is modern Formula One. Kimi represents the modern Formula One driver, because of those values, not only because of his talent. The talent is there with everyone. But you got to be a good person too and he has demonstrated that you can beat everyone out there by being a good person.”

Why Antonelli Will Keep His No. 12 Instead of No. 1

Despite becoming world champion, Antonelli has indicated that he does not plan to replace his current racing number, 12, with the traditional No. 1 reserved for the reigning champion.

The Italian said the number has personal significance and helps him remain grounded as he prepares for another season. His choice is also connected to his admiration for Brazilian Formula One legend Ayrton Senna, who used No. 12 during his early career with Lotus from 1985 to 1987 and when he won his first world championship with McLaren in 1988.

“I’ll stay with No 12 because obviously it’s a very special number for me but also it’s a way for me to stay grounded, to stay humble,” Antonelli said.

He explained that retaining the number would give him a fresh starting point as he looks to improve further rather than allowing the championship to change his approach.

“I feel like by keeping No 12, it allows me to have a new point where to start and build on everything again and try to improve.”

Antonelli Shares Emotional Moment With Hamilton and Verstappen

Antonelli’s championship celebration in Mexico included a memorable moment involving two of Formula One’s most prominent drivers. After the race, Max Verstappen and Lewis Hamilton, who finished first and second respectively, lifted the young Italian onto the podium.

Antonelli described the gesture as an experience he would remember throughout his career, particularly because it came from two drivers he considers among the greatest in the sport’s history.

“I will definitely frame that picture and put it in my house,” he said.

He added that the respect shown by Hamilton and Verstappen made the occasion even more meaningful and that he would always remember the moment.

Wolff’s praise of Antonelli highlights the importance he places on sportsmanship and character alongside racing ability. For the Mercedes team principal, the young Italian’s first world championship is not only a sporting achievement but also an example of the values he believes should define the next generation of Formula One drivers.