Steiner says Italy has yet to fully embrace Antonelli after F1 title

Guenther Steiner believes Kimi Antonelli has not yet received the recognition he deserves in Italy, despite becoming the country's first Formula 1 champion in 73 years. Antonelli also became the sport's youngest champion, at 20 years and 68 days, after finishing third at the Mexico City Grand Prix.

Steiner said Ferrari remains the focus of Italian motorsport enthusiasm, meaning that a driver outside the Scuderia has yet to capture the national imagination. He compared Antonelli's position to that of tennis player Jannik Sinner, who has become a mainstream national hero, and said he hopes Antonelli will receive similar support.

Steiner also praised Antonelli's rookie-season performance at Mercedes, particularly against George Russell. He said the young driver had made very few mistakes and kept his composure, describing him as very mature for his age.