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Nico Rosberg believes that Kimi Antonelli has massive potential and could achieve great things in the future. Rosberg, who has been a powerful figure in the sport for years, possesses the experience and qualities necessary to recognize talent. The German driver put an accent on the young Italian, who will be taking over from Lewis Hamilton next season.
Rosberg confirmed that Kimi was part of his OG Kart team and knows what Antonelli is capable of in the near future. He highlighted that the Italian is only 18 years old and that the pressure on him is enormous. Many are questioning how the new Mercedes driver will handle the actual pressure.
“He was in my go-kart team so I know that he can be the best talent for the next generation. That is clear from Mercedes,”-Rosberg said, as quoted by Crash.
“But he just turned 18. The pressure is so big on his shoulders. It will be a big ask.
Also, the shoes that he is filling…
He is taking the car from the greatest of all time.”
Nico Rosberg explained that Kimi Antonelli has the potential to be the talent for the next generation, much like Max Verstappen is now. However, Rosberg stresses that it is still early to make definitive judgments. He mentioned watching Antonelli's press conference and found himself shaking his head, indicating concerns about the young driver's readiness.
Rosberg admitted that he wouldn't have been able to handle such pressure at 18, stating that Antonelli currently drives a less competitive car in Formula 2, which limits his ability to demonstrate his full capabilities. Despite this, Rosberg understands why Mercedes sees Antonelli as a promising choice for the future.
Becoming a part of such a large stage is a challenging experience. Competing alongside the big names that he admired and followed as a kid is an unusual feeling that the young Italian will need to adjust to. Antonelli’s talent is unquestionable, especially given the praise he has received from legends of the sport. Although we have yet to see Antonelli in action, it is clear that he is extremely talented.
Antonelli experienced a dramatic crash during his first official F1 session at Monza, just 10 minutes into the first practice. Before the crash, he had drawn a lot of attention, with many watching his performance closely as he set fast sector times. Unfortunately, he lost control and spun out in the final corner. It is undeniable that Antonelli was disappointed, considering that he could have done much more. However, such moments are a great lesson for a driver like him. There will certainly be many situations in which Kimi will have the opportunity to learn something completely new.
Rosberg expressed his empathy for Antonelli, accentuating the immense pressure the young driver is under. He pointed out that Mercedes had been talking about Antonelli for months as the replacement for Lewis Hamilton, widely regarded as the greatest of all time. Rosberg highlighted that at just 18 years old and racing in front of a global audience at Monza, Antonelli faced huge expectations. It will be important for him to find a team of people who can guide him on the right path and give him useful advice regarding his career.
Rosberg acknowledged that crashing into the wall was a painful experience and mentally difficult for Antonelli. He observed that online reactions were critical, with many mocking the idea of Antonelli replacing Hamilton. Despite this, Rosberg emphasized that Antonelli's mental resilience is impressive, though even the best drivers face such difficulties.
To become a top driver, having mental strength is crucial, as you must not let anything stand in your way. The best drivers in the sport have not only exceptional driving skills but also mental resilience.
Martin Brundle shares his opinion
The 18-year-old will have an interesting challenge ahead. Martin Brundle has also commented on the new Mercedes driver, believing he has the potential to achieve great things. Although Mercedes executives were initially skeptical, they have come to realize the importance of giving opportunities to talents like Kimi. It is difficult to expect Kimi to immediately showcase his full potential and abilities, given that an adaptation period is necessary. However, expectations are that in a few years, the 18-year-old could become one of the best.
“All the signs are good. The team love him, they believe in him. They gave him so many test days.
He will be superbly prepared to come in as an 18 year old.
He will make mistakes but they know that, and they are prepared for that.”-Brundle said.
Mercedes executives did not react much to the latest events regarding Antonelli, but they expect a lot from him.
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