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F1 Great Riccardo Patrese explains why he told Kimi Antonelli he had to win a championship this season
Kimi Antonelli won the Formula One World Drivers’ Championship, becoming the first Italian to take the title since Alberto Ascari in 1953. Former F1 driver Riccardo Patrese says he urged Antonelli to seize the opportunity because Mercedes began the season with the strongest car, and its advantage might not last.
Patrese, a family friend with 256 Grand Prix starts and six wins, said Antonelli felt like another son to him. The 20-year-old built a points lead with five consecutive spring victories and clinched the championship in Mexico City earlier this month. Patrese, who finished second in 1992, believes Antonelli’s success could encourage more young Italians to take up motor racing.
In short
- Antonelli became Italy’s first F1 champion since 1953.
- Patrese urged him to make the most of Mercedes’ strong start.
- His win may inspire a new generation of Italian drivers.
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