Toto Wolff was left in awe after Kimi Antonelli delivered a stunning victory at the Italian Grand Prix on Sunday. The Mercedes driver started from 19th on the grid and took the chequered flag at his home circuit, a feat last achieved by Ludovico Scarfiotti in 1966.
Wolff, not known for over-the-top praise, used a biblical metaphor to describe Antonelli's performance. "He walked on water at Monza," he told media, including RacingNews365. "Since qualifying, I sensed his energy and determination. This was his mission to win the race."
The win was even more special because Antonelli had to start near the back due to an engine penalty. On his way forward, he passed several drivers, including teammate George Russell, who had been leading. By the end, Antonelli extended his championship lead to 66 points, strengthening his case as the title favourite.
Wolff also compared Antonelli's mindset to that of Lewis Hamilton during his Mercedes heyday. "His ability to carve through traffic was the differentiator. We saw that with Lewis in some races. When driver and car become one, nothing can stop them," Wolff explained.
The one-stop strategy chosen by Mercedes was initially questioned, especially after the race was red-flagged due to Charles Leclerc's crash at Parabolica. However, it proved to be the right call. Antonelli managed his tyres perfectly and made a crucial overtake in the closing laps to secure an improbable victory.
This win not only underlines Antonelli's talent but also signals that a new era for Mercedes has begun. Italian fans finally have a new hero after a 58-year wait.
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