Wolff explains why Antonelli is learning so quickly

Kimi Antonelli’s Monza win raised a question beyond his 66-point championship lead: why is he progressing so quickly in only his second Formula 1 season?

Toto Wolff points to the preparation of the new generation. Simulators are now far more than training toys, allowing young drivers to build experience across single-seaters, GT cars, rally cars and many configurations before reaching F1. The Mercedes boss compares Antonelli to “an AI agent that continuously self-improves and learns”.

Antonelli had an uneven rookie season, but his ability to turn those mistakes into progress has surprised even Wolff. Madrid, with no historic reference points, will test that learning speed again.