Kimi Antonelli sparked laughter in the room as he began his press conference ahead of the Barcelona-Catalunya Grand Prix, shutting down a common question about the World Cup. Media day for the first of two Spanish Formula 1 races this year coincided with the start of the World Cup across the Atlantic, prompting many drivers to share their predictions.
Carlos Sainz, the first to speak in Antonelli's press conference segment, naturally talked up Spain's chances of lifting the trophy. Franco Colapinto, seated on Antonelli's other side, showed his support for Lionel Messi by entering the paddock in an Argentina football shirt. However, the tournament is a sore point for Bologna fan Antonelli, as his homeland Italy failed to qualify.
When press conference host Tom Clarkson addressed Antonelli for the first time, the Mercedes driver quickly made a request. With a smirk, he said: "Don't ask me about the World Cup, by the way," prompting laughter throughout the room. Despite his reluctance, Antonelli offered a few predictions, naming Argentina, Spain, England, and Germany as contenders. When a Portuguese journalist pointed out his omission, Antonelli added Cristiano Ronaldo's nation and the 2022 runners-up, France, to his list.
Antonelli on His F1 Title Charge
The conversation soon turned to Formula 1, where Antonelli leads the drivers' championship by 66 points over second-placed Lewis Hamilton, thanks to five consecutive Grand Prix victories. He is also two points ahead of his teammate George Russell, who was the pre-season favourite as the more experienced Mercedes racer.
After a challenging European portion of his rookie season last year, Antonelli started strongly in Monaco last weekend with a comfortable win from pole. The 19-year-old admitted he did not expect to be in this position in his second F1 season. He said: "Back then in F2, obviously the goal was to get into Formula 1 and then see how the races go. Expectations change, and the objective changes. But if you had told me two years ago, I would have said you're crazy."
He added: "I'm very happy to be in this position. I'm grateful for the opportunities and the incredible work the team is doing. The car has been incredible, allowing us to fight for wins and the championship. It's a super good moment, but it's important not to get carried away. I'm trying to stay focused, grounded, and deliver every race."
