Can a rookie’s innocence really power a title charge? Daniel Ricciardo says Antonelli’s youth fuels his 2026 surge.
With nine wins this sophomore season, Antonelli stands on the cusp of his first championship. All Mercedes needs at Mexico is a ninth‑place finish, or for neither Russell nor Hamilton to win.
The 20‑year‑old would shatter records, becoming F1’s youngest champion by over three years.
Ricciardo, who debuted at 22 and retired at 35, feels he knows Antonelli’s mindset and why it makes him formidable.
On the Beyond The Grid podcast, the Australian explained, “I told a friend about Kimi that ignorance is a superpower – it’s just youth, not a jab.”
He recalled his rookie year at Red Bull: “You’re naive, you’re young, everything clicks. ‘Wow, I’m winning, cool – just keep winning because you’re the best.’”
Ricciardo entered Red Bull’s senior line‑up in 2014 after Mark Webber retired, pairing with Sebastian Vettel and unexpectedly clinching all three team victories that season, outpacing the four‑time champion.
Ricciardo’s RB10 ahead of Vettel’s RB10.
The pattern mirrors Antonelli’s leap over Russell this year, despite the Brit being Mercedes’ established star.
I’m not trying to compare myself, but youthful vigor can cut through this sport’s intensity, while years add baggage,” Ricciardo added.
Right now he sits at that sweet spot – raw talent, blistering speed, and no baggage. It’s pure racing, a genuine superpower. In my view, his clean slate is his biggest asset.
As seasons passed, decisions like his 2018 Red Bull exit grew weightier. He began questioning every move, wondering if past choices still fit.
All that accumulation forced him to dig deep; early on, success came effortlessly, without thought.
After clinching the United States Grand Prix, Antonelli vowed to keep his philosophy intact for the rest of the campaign.
He said, “I’ll stay in the same mindset, chase fun and another win. Finishing on a high is the goal, so I’ll enjoy the remaining races.”
Will Antonelli’s fresh approach reshape the sport in 2027?
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– The Team