Kimi Antonelli has revealed that Sebastian Vettel messages him before and after grands prix, and that his support makes "a difference" as he bids to steal a record from the four-time F1 champion.
Antonelli walked away from the inaugural Spanish Grand Prix at F1's newest circuit, the Madring, with an 81-point lead over Mercedes team-mate George Russell. Should he convert that lead into a drivers' championship, the 20-year-old would take Vettel's record as F1's youngest champion.
Earlier this month, Vettel addressed the prospect, saying he would be delighted rather than bitter if Antonelli grabbed his landmark, that records exist to be broken, and that the hard work behind such a season deserves praise.
A Friendship Dating Back to Childhood
The pair's relationship goes back to Antonelli's childhood. He has previously said he grew up cheering for the German, citing his driving style and character alongside Ayrton Senna as an early inspiration.
Asked about Vettel's comments and how it felt to hear such remarks, Antonelli said: "Of course, it's great. Seb is incredible, and he is a friend of mine. He always sends some messages after every race weekend, and even before some of them."
"It's great to see so much support from him and so much appreciation as well. I'm definitely very happy to get his messages. They make a little difference going into a weekend, or even after," he added.
Support from a legend like Vettel could provide extra motivation for Antonelli, who is currently in top form. With Mercedes showing improved performance, the battle for the world championship is heating up. If Antonelli can maintain his consistency, it's not impossible that he will write his name in history as the youngest champion, surpassing Vettel's achievement in 2010.
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