Kimi Antonelli is making waves in Formula 1, and after his stunning victory at the Miami Grand Prix, the young driver is earning high praise from none other than former F1 driver and Sky Sports analyst Karun Chandhok.
Starting from pole position at the Hard Rock Stadium, Antonelli faced an early challenge when he lost the lead to Ferrari's Charles Leclerc at the start. But the real test came later in the race, as he found himself locked in a tense battle with reigning drivers' champion Lando Norris. Thanks to a perfectly executed undercut strategy, Antonelli held off the McLaren driver for an impressive 28 laps, crossing the finish line to secure his third Grand Prix win of the 2026 season.
Chandhok shared a memorable moment with Antonelli after the race, recalling the young driver's humble demeanor. "He got on the plane and he looked at me and he had that smell of champagne and sweat. That smell of success," Chandhok said on the Sky Sports F1 Show. "He looked at me and almost apologetically said, 'Sorry, I didn't have time for a shower.' I told him, 'Mate, just soak it up.' He was there, no entourage, carrying his little rucksack and wandering through the airport like a college student. He couldn't be friendlier to everybody there."
Chandhok emphasized the pressure Antonelli faced, noting that Norris was within overtake range on multiple occasions. "It could have gone either way," Chandhok explained. "If McLaren had pitted first, Lando looked strong enough to hold track position. They didn't, and Kimi won. But he had to soak up the pressure from the reigning world champion for nearly 30 laps. All it would have taken was a lock-up or a slight energy mismanagement, and Lando was ready to pounce. Kimi did a fantastic job."
The victory in Miami has extended Antonelli's lead in the drivers' championship to 20 points over his experienced Mercedes teammate, George Russell. For a driver who's still early in his F1 career, this performance is a clear sign that the future of the sport is in good hands.
Whether you're a fan of the young star or just love the thrill of a hard-fought race, Antonelli's Miami win is a reminder of the grit and determination that defines champions. Ready to channel that same winning spirit? Gear up with the latest motorsport-inspired apparel and celebrate the champions of today and tomorrow.