Kimi Antonelli reveals biggest lesson from mixed rookie F1 season

Kimi Antonelli has stated that understanding the need to have the right mindset ahead of every F1 session was the most critical lesson he learned last year.

Antonelli stepped up to F1 with Mercedes following several years as part of its junior programme.

After a strong opening handful of rounds, Antonelli endured a challenging period in the European leg of the season before closing out the year in promising fashion.

Having been ushered through the junior categories en route to F1, Antonelli detailed that he had to endure major mindset adjustments as he got up to speed.

“There are many things that I learned in the season, but I definitely understood a lot better about my needs on the track and off track, and on the mindset,” Antonelli told media including RacingNews365.

“I think having the right mindset before going to a session is crucial. 

“Having the focus on the right things, on the important things, and not just focusing on the final result - just focusing on how to get there and that means doing everything right.”

Antonelli's low point of the season saw him fail to score points on six occasions in seven races.

However, he stated that the moments of adversity helped shape him into a stronger driver as he prepares for his second season with the team.

"I think I grew up a lot during the season," he said. "I became more mature, especially overcoming the difficult moments really made me grow. Now I can handle situations better. 

"Of course, there's room for improvement, but we're on a good trajectory so far."