Once considered an underdog in Formula 1, Lando Norris is now contending for a world title. The affable Brit has matured into a seasoned racer with over five years of experience in the premier class. Next year, he will face competition from a new generation of rookies, including 18-year-old Andrea Kimi Antonelli. Norris predicts that the young Italian will face a ‘steep learning curve’.
The spectacular debut of Andrea Kimi Antonelli during the first free practice in Monza ended in disappointment; the Italian crashed George Russell’s W15 into the wall. Despite this, he was introduced the next day as the replacement for Lewis Hamilton. According to Norris, the young Formula 2 driver will face a challenging task in the coming years.
A Steep Learning Curve
“Antonelli has already proven himself in the junior categories,” Norris acknowledges ahead of the Azerbaijan GP. “However, the transition from Formula 4 to Formula 2 is already a big step. It must not have been easy for him. Soon he will face a steep learning curve – it will probably be harder for him than it has ever been for many of us. This obviously brings a lot of pressure.”
Yet Norris has confidence in Antonelli’s abilities. The young Italian has not been fast-tracked to Formula 1 for nothing. “As long as he can handle that pressure well, I am sure he will be up to speed in no time,” continued the McLaren driver. “Moreover, he can learn a lot from his teammate, who is undoubtedly one of the best drivers around,” Norris said, referring to George Russell.
