Alain Prost shares what has ‘surprised him the most’ about Kimi Antonelli’s title win

Four-time Formula 1 world champion Alain Prost has praised Kimi Antonelli following the 20-year-old Mercedes driver's 2026 world championship triumph. Speaking to L'Equipe, Prost revealed that Antonelli's rapid adaptation to Formula 1's new technical regulations surprised him the most. Prost noted that young drivers typically require time to adjust, but Antonelli appeared to drive like an experienced veteran throughout his title-winning campaign.

Prost highlighted Antonelli's error-free weekend during his June victory at the Monaco Grand Prix as a key example of his composure. Prost also suggested Antonelli's youth may have provided an advantage regarding energy management under the new rules. Despite claiming the title, Antonelli is expected to keep number 12 rather than switch to number 1 next season in honor of Ayrton Senna.