Kimi Antonelli on the radio: tennis, go-karts and a lap together
Fresh off his victory in the China Grand Prix, 19-year-old Kimi Antonelli appeared on Radio2's La pennicanza after a comic imitation of him. Host Fiorello video-called Antonelli, and the young Mercedes driver fielded questions with a relaxed, slightly amused tone.
The tense bits of a race
Antonelli said the most nerve-wracking moments are the start and the final laps, which feel like they last forever. He also noted that his China win put an Italian driver back on the top step of the podium for the first time since Giancarlo Fisichella in March 2006.
Unexpected praise and a friendly rivalry
- Surprising messages: Antonelli admitted he did not expect some of the compliments he received, especially one from Lewis Hamilton, who he said was really happy for him.
- Jannik Sinner: Sinner called to congratulate Antonelli after the race. The two traded lighthearted comments about who is better at what.
On the subject of tennis, Antonelli joked that his backhand is terrible while his forehand is okay. He also acknowledged that Sinner trains on go-karts, which adds a twist to the conversation about speed.
Could Sinner ever drive an F1 car?
Antonelli was realistic: seeing Sinner in a full Formula 1 seat seems unlikely. Still, he suggested a practical compromise. In his words, taking a lap together in a two-seater F1 car would be possible.
A quick sports note
Before signing off, Antonelli made a short prediction for the Roma versus Bologna derby. He said he hopes Bologna wins 1-0, but added that it will depend on which team plays better on the day.
