Daniel Ricciardo believes Kimi Antonelli’s youth and lack of experience are key strengths in his 2026 F1 title bid. The 20-year-old Mercedes driver needs just a ninth-place finish at the Mexican Grand Prix to become the youngest world champion in F1 history, surpassing Sebastian Vettel’s record by over three years. Ricciardo, who debuted at 22 and retired at 35, draws a parallel to his own early career, calling ignorance a superpower.
He recalls how at Red Bull in 2014, everything felt easy — no pressure, no overthinking. Antonelli, despite outperforming teammate George Russell, hasn’t accumulated the mental baggage that often burdens veterans. Ricciardo notes how his own later years were clouded by second-guessing career moves, like leaving Red Bull in 2018.
Antonelli, however, remains unburdened — just racing with fun and focus. After winning the U.S. GP, he vowed to keep his carefree approach through the season’s end, aiming to finish on a high.
Source: Autosport F1 News · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing