Kimi Antonelli’s First F1 Podium Sparks Goosebumps at Canadian GP

Goosebumps and Glory: Kimi Antonelli takes first F1 podium at Canadian GP

Andrea Kimi Antonelli achieved a major milestone in his Formula 1 journey by securing his very first podium at the Canadian Grand Prix on June 15, 2025. The 18-year-old Italian, driving for Mercedes, crossed the line third at Circuit Gilles Villeneuve after a tense battle with Oscar Piastri during the late stages of the race.

Antonelli’s strong finish placed him alongside race winner and teammate George Russell, and Max Verstappen, putting his name among the youngest drivers ever to reach the F1 podium. Only Max Verstappen and Lance Stroll were younger when they first stood on the rostrum.

Asked about his achievement, Antonelli spoke about the tough week leading into Montreal. He said the race was stressful, especially as Piastri pushed hard to close the gap.

Antonelli watched the laps count down on the big screens around the circuit, hoping for the finish as the pressure mounted. He described how Piastri tried to pass him at Turn 1 in the final laps, which took maximum effort to defend.

Despite the pressure, Antonelli kept his cool and held on for the podium.

Antonelli’s performance in Canada stands out as his best so far in his rookie season. After taking over the Mercedes seat from seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton at the start of the year, Antonelli has quickly adapted to life in F1.

With just ten Grands Prix under his belt, he has already shown mature racing skills and a calm approach that have impressed both his team and rivals. Antonelli admitted there is still improvement needed, especially in qualifying, but felt encouraged by the positive progress Mercedes is making.

The atmosphere on the podium was something Antonelli said he would never forget. He described the feeling of hearing the roaring crowd and getting goosebumps as he stepped onto the stage.

The result has boosted his confidence and left him determined to push for more podiums and, possibly, his first race win in the remainder of the 2025 season.

Antonelli thanked George Russell for his guidance throughout the early part of the year, crediting his teammate with helping him adapt to the demands of Formula 1. He also named Max Verstappen, who entered F1 as a teenager, as a source of inspiration.

Antonelli said competing against the top drivers in the world pushes him to perform at his peak, and he is motivated to keep improving.

Max Verstappen, the reigning world champion, shared his view on Antonelli’s rise, saying he was not surprised to see the young Italian reach the podium so soon. Verstappen has followed Antonelli since his karting days and spoke highly of his natural speed and calm attitude.

Verstappen believes Antonelli will learn quickly from both the good and tough races, predicting that fans can expect much more from him in the future.

With a first F1 podium to his name and the backing of both his team and some of the sport’s biggest stars, Antonelli heads into the next races eager to continue his progress. His breakthrough in Montreal has marked him as one of the top rookies to watch this season and a strong contender for success in the years ahead.

For insights on recent aerodynamic developments that shaped the season, see the details on the F1 flexi-wing at the Spanish GP.

Daniel Miller

Daniel Miller reports on Formula 1 Grand Prix weekends with race-day analysis, team-radio highlights, and point-standings updates. He explains power-unit upgrades, aerodynamic developments, and driver rivalries in straightforward, SEO-friendly language for a global F1 audience.