Toto Wolff Praises Kimi Antonelli as Role Model

Toto Wolff's Role Model Claim

Mercedes boss Toto Wolff says newly crowned world champion Kimi Antonelli should be a role model for both upcoming drivers and some of his 'entitled' Formula 1 rivals.

“This notion of win at all costs, selfish, opportunistic, ruthless for your own benefit. That model of racing driver has died”

Antonelli's Historic Win

Antonelli, 20, became the sport's youngest ever world champion at Sunday's Mexico City Grand Prix with four rounds to spare.

Antonelli's Charm and Impact

Antonelli charmed Mercedes colleagues, rivals, and fans with his charm and youthful exuberance during his second season in F1.

Wolff's Values Statement

Wolff says Antonelli represents values like humility, integrity, loyalty, respect, and being himself.

“We have a new champion that represents values - humility, integrity, loyalty, respect. Being himself.”

Antonelli's Future Vision

Antonelli says this win marks a new beginning for future championship battles with Max Verstappen and Lewis Hamilton.

“This is just the beginning. This win is just going to mark a new beginning, a new point to build on to keep improving and to keep trying to win championships.”

Antonelli's Growth Journey

Antonelli overcame criticism last season by racing straight into Mercedes, gaining maturity through high-pressure experiences.

“It's always good to shut off some of the noise. Of course, i think in many ways it does help to add fuel to the fire, the fact that some people said that i wasn't belonging to formula 1 or i wasn't ready for it”

Sao Paulo Grand Prix Schedule

Sao Paulo Grand Prix takes place November 8, 2026, with practice sessions and qualifying on Thursday through Sunday.