Kimi Antonelli Becomes the Third-Youngest Podium Finisher
After only passing his driver's test earlier this year before the Formula 1 season began, Kimi Antonelli has become the third-youngest podium finisher in F1 history. The 18-year-old rookie raced alongside his teammate George Russell in their flying cars, as Russell took first on the podium. The double win not only elevates the Mercedes team to 199 points but also marks the highest points scored in a race for the 2025 season so far. With a 40-point addition to the team's numbers, they are furthering their distance from Ferrari, as they currently stand at 183 points. The atmosphere can only be described as glorious at Circuit Gilles Villeneuve, as it was filled with celebration and applause for the two drivers.
The Italian rookie started the race better than he could imagine as he managed to jump into P3 and stay at the front of the race. Even with a safety car being deployed as Lando Norris found himself skidding against the wall, colliding with his McLaren teammate, Oscar Piastri, Antonelli found no point in slowing down. Not too long after, Norris retired from the race, admitting his fault in the situation and later apologizing to his teammate. While all this occurred, and McLaren had a troubled day, the opposite was felt in the Mercedes garage. Regarding Russell crossing the line to secure his fourth Grand Prix victory, and Antonelli claiming the third spot on the podium, the cheers for Mercedes were astonishing.
Antonelli has surely surpassed everyone’s expectations with his finish in Canada. With such an outstanding start to his career as the reserve driver for the team he now calls home, and the trophies under his belt, he has certainly made his mark in the Formula 1 world. This leaves one to wonder, what is next for the rookie who replaced Lewis Hamilton? Will he keep working his way up, making his mark in Formula 1 history, or will things come crashing down as soon as they start? Here’s hoping the young driver found the confidence he needed to become a real champion. Make sure to look out for number 12 on the grid during the Austrian Grand Prix on June 29th. History is being made, and you won’t want to miss out.
