Mercedes spent millions on nurturing Antonelli after Ferrari said no

In a story that could have turned out differently for Formula One, Kimi Antonelli, a local boy from Italy, was passed over by Ferrari in favor of Mercedes. The opportunity for Ferrari to sign the now 20-year-old Antonelli, who is set to become Italy's first champion in 73 years, was let slip when he was merely 11 years old. Former Ferrari president Luca di Montezemolo, who was no longer involved with the team at the time, expressed regret for missing the chance to sign Antonelli, stating that such a young Italian driving a Ferrari would have been too much pressure.

Mercedes team boss and co-owner Toto Wolff praised the extensive efforts that went into nurturing Antonelli's career, noting that the team spent over 10 million dollars in his development. Wolff also pointed out how some people doubted Antonelli's ability after he failed to score points for nine rounds last year, and how other teams suggested he should not even be in Formula One.

Despite the doubts, Antonelli has proven his doubters wrong with his recent victory at the US Grand Prix, marking his ninth win of the season.