Antonelli reveals key Wolff phone call

Mercedes F1 protégé Andrea Kimi Antonelli has opened up on a phone call he had with Toto Wolff earlier this year.

Antonelli, who has been part of Mercedes' junior programme since 2019, has been heavily tipped with a drive at the Brackley-based squad next year in place of Ferrari-bound Lewis Hamilton.

The Italian spiralled into Formula 2 this year at just 17 years of age and currently sits seventh in the drivers' championship with two victories.

However, speaking to Motorsport.com, Antonelli is not taking his success for granted.

“No, because I never expected to go straight into F2," he said. 

“When they informed me that this was the plan, I thought it would be a big jump, because you usually go to F3 first, but at the same time the challenge was immediately appealing to me.

“I didn't plan on coming to F2 and winning everything, I was always aware that the jump from Formula Regional would be very challenging and I was aware that I had a lot to learn, which I am still doing.”

Wolff phone call

Antonelli outlined the strong elationship he has with Mercedes boss Wolff as he continues to gather experience at a high level.

After qualifying 10th at Silverstone earlier this year, Antonelli phoned Wolff as he was feeling downbeat over his performance, with the Austrian restoring his confidence before winning the sprint race the following day.

“I am also very happy with the relationship I have [with Wolff],” he said. “In difficult moments I ask him for advice and he always looks for a way to give me confidence.

"I'll give you an example. After the disappointing qualifying in Silverstone, I called him because it was a bit of a tough time. 

“We talked a lot and that conversation gave me back my confidence, and the next day I won and it was really nice to see him under the podium.

"When you go through difficult times, I think you come out stronger in the end, also in terms of attitude. Silverstone and Budapest confirmed it."