Lewis Hamilton: Kimi Antonelli “is worthy of being the champion”

When asked about his successor nearing the title, Hamilton remarked: “I mean, when I was in that position, I was aware of who would be taking my place. Kimi was present around the team, closely following us, especially in my final year.”

“I believe it was a wise decision to create an opportunity for an emerging young talent. Kimi had demonstrated his capabilities in the lower categories along with his enthusiasm, charm, and positive attitude. He fit seamlessly into the environment.”

“In his inaugural year, it’s challenging for anyone stepping into a seat like that, in a team of that caliber, and managing the expectations that come with it, the responsibilities, and the commitment. Yet, he has handled it remarkably well. It’s been fantastic to witness his performances this year. It’s incredibly impressive, and he deserves the championship.”

Andrea Kimi Antonelli, Mercedes, Lewis Hamilton, Ferrari

The rookie's first season, at just 18 years old, was indeed challenging – he made mistakes and struggled for speed compared to Russell – but he has excelled so far in 2026, securing six pole positions and eight victories in 17 races, including a commanding home win from 19th on the grid in Monza. No one else has claimed more than three grand prix wins, not even his teammate.

Even more impressively, Antonelli has stood on the podium in all but three races – Barcelona and Silverstone, where he faced a battery failure and a broken wheel shield respectively, and Baku, where he humorously admitted to ‘driving like his grandmother’.

So, when asked if he had any tips for the probable 2026 title victor, the seven-time world champion quipped: “Slow down.”

“No, I’m not sure. He doesn’t require any advice. He has demonstrated this year – and also last year, but especially this year – his talent and capability, his composure, and his approach. He’s done an outstanding job this season, and I feel immense pride in him. I'm proud of how he conducts himself, interacts with the drivers, and even with you guys [the media]. It’s wonderful to see him and the team thrive. If it’s not my team, I always hope to see my former team succeed.”

Andrea Kimi Antonelli, Mercedes, Lewis Hamilton, Ferrari

Has anything in the Italian's performance caught Hamilton off guard? “I don’t think so,” he replied.

“I already knew the support structure they would establish around him. Bono [race engineer Peter Bonnington] is exceptional at providing support, as are Shov [trackside engineering director Andrew Shovlin] and Simon [Cole, chief engineer], along with everyone in the team.

“Toto is remarkable in his role and in creating the environment and surrounding himself with the right people. I had a similar experience when I joined Mercedes and the same at McLaren.”

“I know there were questions about whether I would be able to perform, especially alongside a double world champion. I see parallels between how my first year and initial years unfolded and how Kimi has approached this season.”

“However, it’s not something that just one individual does randomly. You need to have those supportive elements around you. I was fortunate to have that at McLaren, and it’s great that he has it there.”

Still, regardless of how supportive their environment is, the driver must deliver on the track. “I suppose you never truly know how someone will react under pressure until you witness it,” Hamilton added.

“I could assume he would manage the weight of having to make all these appearances and handle everything coming at him from all directions. But he has approached it with ease, and he’s an old soul in that youthful body, I would say.”