Jun.11 (GMM) Jarno Trulli believes Kimi Antonelli may be perfectly placed to win the 2026 world championship after becoming the first Italian to win the Monaco GP since the former Renault driver did it himself in 2004.
Antonelli’s flawless victory around the streets of Monte Carlo – his fifth consecutive win in Formula 1 – has triggered growing excitement in Italy, with Trulli among those convinced the 19-year-old Mercedes driver is something special.
“Coming to Monte Carlo and winning is not for everyone,” Trulli told Corriere dello Sport.
“It’s a tortuous, difficult track that demands feverish and constant attention. If you win there, you’re definitely going to be something special.”
Trulli, now 51, admitted he was not surprised by the result.
“To those who asked me for a prediction on the eve of the race, I answered frankly: Kimi seems to be in exceptional form, and what’s more, he has the best car in his hands.”
The Italian said Antonelli’s age only makes the achievement more impressive.
The interviewer asked: “For a 19-year-old boy, in his second season in Formula 1, isn’t a flawless triumph in Monaco a sign of predestination?”
Trulli replied: “Without a doubt.”
He thinks Antonelli should now focus fully on the championship battle.
“Formula 1 teaches a cruel and beautiful law – you have to be in the right place at the right time. This is the moment when Kimi must fiercely fight to win the title, because every year is a different story.
“This could really be his season.”
Trulli believes Antonelli’s biggest threat may not even be a rival driver.
“He’s in perfect shape, in total harmony with the car, and his only real rival is himself, considering that even Russell, for reasons I can’t explain, is struggling to function.”
The 1-time grand prix winner also reflected on the unique challenge of Monaco.
“Concentration, sensitivity, courage – it’s a mix of all of these,” he said. “Monaco doesn’t allow for mistakes.”
Meanwhile, Antonelli found himself at the centre of an amusing off-track talking point after viral footage appeared to show Lewis Hamilton’s new girlfriend Kim Kardashian leaving parc ferme with the Mercedes driver’s fresh podium towel.
Mercedes has cheekily joined the story, posting a social media compilation including Antonelli looking confused after washing his hands asking: “have you seen my towel?”