Kimi Antonelli Calls Monza Win the Highlight of His Career

Kimi Antonelli, fresh off his triumphant performance at the Italian Grand Prix, has opened up about the exhilaration of claiming victory in Monza. Describing the experience as "the best day of my life," the Mercedes driver is still riding the high of his phenomenal race.

Antonelli's path to victory was anything but straightforward. Due to an engine change and the penalties that followed, the 20-year-old found himself starting from the back of the grid. However, the formidable pace of the Mercedes W17 and Monza's overtaking opportunities gave him a fighting chance.

Defying expectations, Antonelli surged from P19, engaging in thrilling duels, notably with his teammate George Russell, before crossing the finish line with a 3.857-second lead. This win not only marked a significant milestone in his second season with Mercedes but also extended his lead in the Drivers’ Championship to 66 points.

Reflecting on his victory, Antonelli said, "The weekend itself was absolutely incredible. Definitely so far the best day of my life, and an incredible memory. I couldn’t wish for a better day." He admitted that the full impact of his achievement hadn't yet sunk in, as he's quickly turning his attention to the Spanish Grand Prix.

Antonelli also fondly recalled the moment he crossed the finish line, the podium celebration, and the roaring support of the Tifosi. "Seeing all the Tifosi, this massive crowd of people that was endless, was absolutely incredible," he shared. "Hearing them singing the national anthem was also very, very special."

The race underscored for Antonelli that "nothing's impossible." Initially aiming for a podium finish, he has now set his sights on performing well at the new Madring circuit in Spain. "I had goosebumps all the way," he reminisced. "The next day I re-watched the podium and everything, and I still had goosebumps because obviously you dream of winning your home race."

Antonelli's victory at Monza was not just a personal triumph but a memorable celebration with his team. "The song at the end was the cherry on top of the cake," he said, referring to the anthem that rang through the crowd. "Also within the team now, we’re all singing it. So hopefully we will have a reason to sing it this weekend as well."

Though he wishes for more time to revel in his Monza success, Antonelli is focused on the task ahead in Madrid, eager to replicate his performance. "Now obviously we’re in Madrid and we’re ready to do our best, and we’ll try to repeat it," he concluded.