Former youngest champion Fittipaldi hails Antonelli’s rise

Emerson Fittipaldi says the rise of younger Formula One champions reflects how drivers now start competing at elite levels much earlier. He praised Mercedes driver Kimi Antonelli, whose championship has moved Fittipaldi out of the five youngest title winners, while calling the Italian’s achievement evidence of both changing times and exceptional talent.

Antonelli began karting at five and raced in Formula Two before making his F1 debut last year. Fittipaldi, who started karting at 17 and won his first title at 25 in 1972, cited Antonelli’s Monza victory from 19th on the grid as a display of composure under pressure. He also backed efforts to bring Argentina back to the calendar; São Paulo has secured its place through 2035, while Buenos Aires’ circuit is being renovated.