Before the year began we asked F1 TV lead commentator and F2 specialist Alex Jacques for his read on the incoming rookies. Now that the season is over, Alex returns with his assessment of how each newcomer performed.
Kimi Antonelli – Mercedes
Best finish: P2
Total points: 150
Stand-out moments:
– Sprint Qualifying pole in Miami, which made him the youngest ever polesitter in F1 history at 18 years and 251 days.
– A strong, controlled race in Las Vegas that converted raw pace into a podium and offered the clearest sign of his racecraft.
How he impressed:
Antonelli managed the pressure of stepping into Lewis Hamilton’s seat better than many expected. He grabbed attention early with an assertive drive from 16th to fourth at the season opener in Melbourne, and consistently showed the speed and composure that mark him out as a genuine talent for the future.