Mercedes team boss Toto Wolff has described rookie Kimi Antonelli’s performance at the Italian Grand Prix as “underwhelming.”
The 19-year-old finished ninth after a messy race that included a five-second penalty for running Williams driver Alex Albon off the track.
Despite the difficult weekend, Wolff remains steadfast in his support for Antonelli, whom he fast-tracked into Formula 1 this year.
“It doesn’t change anything on my support and confidence in his future because I believe he’s going to be very, very, very good,” Wolff said.
Antonelli’s rookie season has been inconsistent. He secured a podium in Canada but has struggled with confidence since a suspension change on his car.
Wolff stressed the need for Antonelli to have a “clean weekend” and “get rid of the ballast” of past mistakes to unlock his natural talent.
