Andrea Stella highlights what will be ‘astonishing’ about Kimi Antonelli winning 2026 F1 title

McLaren team principal Andrea Stella stated that Mercedes driver Andrea Kimi Antonelli is rightfully the next Formula 1 world champion. Antonelli can secure the 2026 title at the Mexico City Grand Prix, where he needs just two points to become the youngest champion in the sport's history. Stella called it astonishing that the 20-year-old Italian will join historical champions Giuseppe Farina and Alberto Ascari as the only Italian title winners.

Antonelli enters the race weekend with a 123-point lead over Mercedes teammate George Russell after claiming nine victories across 18 Grands Prix. Stella highlighted Antonelli's aggressive yet effective driving style, praising his rapid adaptation to the challenging 2026 technical regulations compared to rival competitors.