In a surprising revelation, Kimi Antonelli, Mercedes’ 18-year-old rising star, has named Ayrton Senna—not Lewis Hamilton—as his ultimate role model. Set to replace Ferrari-bound talent in the Mercedes lineup in 2025, the young Italian prodigy is already drawing eyes with his skill, but his choice of hero is sure to raise some eyebrows.
While Antonelli shares a strong camaraderie with seven-time world champion Hamilton, it’s Senna, the Brazilian legend, who has captured his admiration. Although Senna’s tragic death at the 1994 San Marino GP means Antonelli never witnessed his hero race live, the Italian driver has immersed himself in Senna’s legacy through videos and race archives.
“He’s My Idol”: Senna’s Enduring Influence on Antonelli
“Ayrton Senna is my idol. I didn’t get to see him race live, but watching him drive through old footage, I could see how special he was,” Antonelli shared, expressing how deeply he’s been inspired by Senna’s raw talent and relentless pursuit of perfection. “He always got the best out of everything he did. Through those videos, he’s become my inspiration.”
Antonelli’s admiration isn’t confined to Senna’s driving prowess alone. For him, the Brazilian is a hero both on and off the track. “He wasn’t just a great driver but also a genuinely empathetic person,” Antonelli reflected. “It’s my dream to achieve even a fraction of what he accomplished in F1.”
Looking to the Future: Can Antonelli Live Up to the Hype?
As he gears up for his Formula 1 debut, Antonelli carries the weight of high expectations. The young driver’s journey to the top will undoubtedly be watched with keen anticipation, as fans and critics alike are eager to see if the Italian can channel Senna’s legacy into his own racing career.
With his rookie season fast approaching, one thing is clear: Antonelli’s unique choice of idol sets him apart, and he’s already being hailed by many as a potential F1 world champion. But only time will tell if he can follow in the footsteps of the man he reveres.