Antonelli 'disrupting rules of fandom' in Ferrari's Italy
BBC Sport heads to Monza to find out if Italians want Kimi Antonelli to win the F1 title or if it is all about Ferrari.
Kimi Antonelli, the young star driver for Mercedes, has been making waves in Formula 1 since his 20th birthday in August. In March, he became the youngest-ever championship leader, leading from Japan at just 19 years, seven months and four days. Now, at the Italian Grand Prix, Antonelli has a 59-point advantage at the top of the standings after winning six races this year.
Despite driving for Mercedes, not Italy's beloved Ferrari, Antonelli is disrupting traditional rules of fandom. The Italian Grand Prix is the first race since his birthday and the fans are flocking to see him battle his Ferrari rivals Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc for race wins and the championship.
Ferrari holds a special place in the hearts of Italians; it's a religion for many. A win for a Ferrari driver in F1 is a cause for celebration, like a second coming. But with Antonelli's success, Italians are starting to dream of a new hero - even if he drives for a direct competitor.
Journalist Giulia Toninelli says Antonelli's strong personality has won over the Italian public, especially the younger fanbase. He is loved despite driving for Mercedes, and if he wins the world title, it would mean Italy is back on top. However, some fans are torn between their love for Ferrari and their support for Antonelli.
MotoGP race winner Marco Melandri and GP2 series champion Davide Valsecchi also feel excited about Antonelli's performance. They believe he is living the dream of Italian fans, even though some are still very close to Ferrari. Regardless, the season finale at Imola, close to where Antonelli grew up in Bologna, could potentially see Italy back on top in Formula 1.
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