Kimi Antonelli says he didn’t expect a stunning F1 pole position in the sprint race at the Miami Grand Prix.
The 18-year-old Italian rookie, signed to replace seven-time Mercedes world champion Lewis Hamilton, became the youngest driver to win the Formula One pole position in Miami.
Antonelli surpassed Oscar Piastri and Rand Norris’ McLaren pair by narrow margins and produced an excellent rap to secure his place at the frontline of the grid for Saturday’s short sprint race.
“I didn’t see it coming. I felt the rap was good and I was happy with it,” Antoneli told Sky Sports F1.
“There were still some bits I could have done better, but I was very pleased with how I put all the sectors together. I enjoy this moment, but I’ll focus on tomorrow because it’s good to repeat the results.
“McLaren, Ferrari and Red Bull have a stronger race pace, but we’re pretty close. It’s important that we get off to a good start and then set too much pace for the degradation (tyres).”
This was the first time Antonelli has defeated Mercedes teammate George Russell in qualifying this season.
Russell finished fifth, 0.309 seconds behind Antonelli after completing his only SQ3 lap before his rival.
“Every weekend I learn a lot,” Antonelli added. “Taking a break last week helped me gather information, process everything and recharge the battery, which was really good.
“The whole qualification I felt I was able to make step laps with laps. I know more about how to do consistent warm-ups and extract more from the tires, but there’s a lot to improve.
“Every weekend I can be confident in the car and play around with it and explore the limitations. At the same time, I can understand more from the setup and give much better feedback that will allow my team to improve the car.”
Antonelli’s emotional celebration with father
Antoneli was seen embracing his father, Marco, as Mercedes thrilled the milestone accomplishments.
“My dad has come from the start of the season,” Antonelli said of his celebration with his father.
“He’s like a rock to me, because I can always rely on him and it’s good to share this moment with him.”
In another interview, Marco told Sky Sports F1:
“Yes, it’s a sprint race, but we got off to a good start!
“We are one of those families who try to tell you that you have to work hard in life, so don’t complain before you know if you’re doing a good job.
“We are a normal family. We work every day. I don’t think we’re anything special other than a family that tries to give our children the best of our lives.
“You understand this and this is the outcome.”