Stewart hailed Antonelli’s maturity ahead of Monza challenge

Kimi Antonelli arrived at Monza leading the World Championship, the first Italian to do so in 73 years, holding a 59‑point advantage over Lewis Hamilton and George Russell. Despite a grid penalty for an engine change, the 20‑year‑old was expected to charge forward thanks to his relentless race pace and improved starts.

His consistency has impressed observers across the paddock, including Jackie Stewart, who twice won at Monza and offered glowing praise. Speaking to Autosprint, Stewart said Antonelli is doing “a tremendous job,” highlighting both his speed and his rare maturity for such a young driver. He believes the passion of the Italian crowd will give Antonelli an extra push. The last Italian to fight for the title at Monza was Michele Alboreto in 1985, while the most recent home victory dates back to Ludovico Scarfiotti in 1966. Antonelli now has the chance to revive those historic memories.