Wolff challenges Antonelli to build on momentum of first win

Kimi Antonelli needs to keep his focus and learn how to build on his first Formula 1 victory, says Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff ahead of this weekend’s Japanese Grand Prix.

Antonelli become the second-youngest winner in F1 history with his victory in China last time out, leaving him four points adrift of teammate George Russell in the drivers’ championship standings. Mercedes has enjoyed a dominant start to the 2026 season but Wolff – who notes that the picture could have looked very different due to reliability issues – says Antonelli is far from the finished article despite his form.

“We have made a positive start to the season but it is only that,” Wolff (pictured at left, above, with Antonelli and engineer Pete Bonnington after the Chinese GP) said. “In both Australia and China, we had several close calls that could have ended our weekend. These cars are new and fragile; we were fortunate that none of the issues we faced severely compromised our results. We have work to do to make sure that continues to be the case.

“The grid is also learning so much every time we take to the track. Each weekend brings a new set of challenges and we are focused on completing our work, and looking to improve. We know that the moment you think you've got this sport figured out, you are usually proven wrong.

“That is as true for Kimi as it is for the team. His win in China was a great achievement and a moment to be proud of. However, his focus and ours are on what is ahead. His first victory is a first step and all that matters is how he builds on it. We will support him to navigate the expectations that come with performing at the front more consistently.”

For his part, Antonelli referenced his own development shortly after taking victory in Shanghai, when thanking Wolff for the trust placed in him as a junior driver. In an open letter published on the Mercedes website, the team's driver development advisor Gwen Lagrue similarly reiterated how much further the Italian has to go.

“We were bold when we promoted you,” Lagrue wrote. “You were young but we were brave as one. And that doesn’t stop here. This is only the beginning.

“We will keep pushing you. You will keep pushing yourself. And together, we’ll keep moving forward.

“Whatever happens next, no one can take this away from you: You are a Formula 1 Grand Prix winner. Part of the history of this sport. Part of the history of this team. Enjoy it and then let’s get back to work! Because every single one of us is chasing the same dream. And we only get there together.”