Kimi Antonelli expects younger F1 drivers to gain from the 2026 rule changes. With lighter cars and a larger role for electrification and active aerodynamics, the grid faces a completely new challenge. That could also affect some drivers’ driving styles. According to Antonelli, rookies’ lack of ingrained habits may be an advantage; they’re used to adapting at high speed.
“For all the rookies who came into Formula 1 last year, it’s good to start this year with a new car, because we were used to driving a different car every season,” Antonelli said. “So we’re used to adapting to a new car as quickly as possible. In that regard it’s good we have a new car this year, because it’s a reset for everyone. Since we’re already used to that, it may help us get to grips with the car faster.”
‘Offers opportunities for rookies’
The new regulations, Antonelli says, mean everyone has to start from scratch, which can make the field more even. Where experienced drivers benefited last season from deep knowledge of the cars, that advantage is now largely erased. “This is a huge rule change and it basically sets everything back to zero, because everyone has to learn the car again,” the Italian explained. “So in that respect it’s better, because last year most drivers already knew the car. After all, they had been involved in its development.”
“Now that everything is completely new, that creates opportunities,” the Mercedes driver continued enthusiastically. “Whoever understands the regulations the quickest and best can really make the difference.” At the same time the young driver stressed that experience still plays an important role and that the established names should not be underestimated. “The other drivers are not dumb,” Antonelli added. “So I think they’ll get to grips with it quickly as well.”
“Experience still counts,” he admitted. “The way you approach a season and each race weekend remains important. I’ve, of course, already spent a year in Formula 1 and learned a lot, but this year I’ll certainly tackle some moments differently. I think I still have a lot to learn. So in terms of experience there will still be a difference, but in terms of driving I think the new car levels the playing field more. That presents huge opportunities.”
