Mercedes boss Toto Wolff praises Kimi Antonelli as a new type of champion
Toto Wolff said the emerging champion Kimi Antonelli embodies humility and teamwork, contrasting him with a perceived older model of selfish drivers.
Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff told journalists in Mexico that the era of a "win at all costs" driver has ended. Referring to a conversation with FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem, Wolff said the sport now needs champions who show humility, integrity, loyalty and respect. He highlighted 20-year-old Kimi Antonelli as an example, suggesting the young Italian could serve as a role model for both junior drivers and established Formula 1 competitors.
"We have a new champion that represents values like humility, integrity, loyalty, respect and being himself," Wolff said.
Wolff added that Antonelli’s personality has positively affected the garage atmosphere, noting that his friendliness has even led to more camaraderie among team members. He praised the driver’s on-track performance and his ability to stay focused, mentioning that Antonelli does not consume alcohol and maintains a disciplined lifestyle.
"He's just a normal guy. He doesn't act like he's a rock star or a superstar. He's just very genuine," Verstappen was quoted as saying about Antonelli.
The Mercedes chief said he hopes Antonelli will continue to succeed without losing the personal qualities that have made him popular, and he expects further titles for the driver in the future.