Antonelli: Learning from Bono's experience 'a very big privilege'
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Mercedes rookie Kimi Antonelli has opened up about his budding relationship with veteran race engineer Peter Bonnington during his debut Formula 1 season.
The 18-year-old charger, who replaced Lewis Hamilton after his move to Ferrari, has already notched up points with P4 in Australia and P6 in China, despite early damage in the latter.
Antonelli credits 'Bono' – the famous voice in Hamilton's ears during the seven-time world champion's twelve-year tenure with Mercedes – for his smooth entry into the sport.
A Privilege to Work with Bono
Antonelli reflected on Bonnington's influence last time out in Shanghai, during the Chinese Grand Prix weekend.
"I think having someone like Bono, it's amazing," he said.
"It's a very big privilege because he has worked with two of the best drivers in the history of Formula 1 – he worked with Michael [Schumacher] and then he worked with Lewis for so many years."
©Mercedes
The Italian teenager clearly values the wealth of experience Bonnington brings, especially as a newcomer facing uncharted challenges.
"So having someone with so much knowledge and experience, it really helps you because obviously I've so many new scenarios that I will have to go through, so many new scenarios that I will have to face, so many new things that I will have to learn, and having someone like him that has so much experience, definitely it's really helpful because it can really guide you in every situation, and so I feel really lucky to have someone like him."
From Tension to Triumph
Antonelli's debut in Melbourne, where treacherous conditions tested all drivers, was a baptism by fire. Reflecting on that P4 finish, he admitted: "It was a big, big relief. It was a really intense weekend, and to come away with a good race [was a] good boost of confidence but also big relief.
"Now I feel a lot more calm and relaxed. I'm not going to lie, I was quite stressed and a bit tense as well while driving."
With Bonnington's steady guidance, he's finding his footing.
"But now I feel more relaxed and more in control as well of the situations. There's still a lot to learn, but definitely was a good start and I'm really looking forward for the next few races."
With Bonnington by his side, Antonelli's early points haul signals a bright future.
His ability to lean on such seasoned support is proving invaluable as he tackles the steep learning curve of F1, blending youthful talent with championship-winning wisdom.
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