Formula 1 has undergone a significant cultural transformation in recent years, driven by the popularity of the Netflix series Drive to Survive and the rapid growth of social media engagement. This shift has not only elevated the sport itself but also increased attention on the personal lives and styles of the drivers. Kimi Antonelli, a rising star in the F1 world, recently shared his thoughts on how off-track fashion has become an important part of the sport’s identity. In particular, he acknowledged Lewis Hamilton as a major inspiration for his own fashion choices.
During an interview with La Gazzetta dello Sport, Antonelli praised Hamilton, whom he succeeded at Mercedes, for revolutionizing the way Formula 1 drivers present themselves through fashion.
“Lewis Hamilton. He changed the way the drivers present themselves on the track and their relationship with fashion in the paddock. Before, almost no one dressed according to their own style, everyone wore team gear, while today it’s different and I think it’s beautiful that everyone chooses how to show themselves in front of the cameras.” —Kimi Antonelli, on who influences him
Antonelli also revealed a personal side to his fashion journey by mentioning his mother, Veronica, as his primary stylist. Despite her critical eye, he admitted that he is gradually becoming more confident in making his own clothing choices.
“My stylist is my mum, Veronica. She never likes how I dress or the combinations I choose. If she takes me shopping, she decides which clothes I have to try on. After a while I just say: ‘Ok, fine, whatever.’ But come on, lately I’ve been getting better at choosing on my own.” —Kimi Antonelli, on his style guidance
Toto Wolff Critiques Antonelli’s Performance at Monza
While Antonelli’s influence on fashion is growing, his recent on-track results at the Italian Grand Prix provided a more challenging narrative. Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff expressed disappointment with Antonelli’s showing at Monza on Sunday, September 7. Finishing ninth after receiving a five-second penalty that dropped him a place, Antonelli’s race was marked by errors, including running off the track and into the gravel.
“Underwhelming this weekend. Underwhelming. You can’t put the car in the gravel bed and expect to be there. All of the race was underwhelming.” —Toto Wolff, on Antonelli’s race performance
Despite the criticism, Wolff emphasized his belief in Antonelli’s potential, noting that the rookie’s youth should be taken into account when assessing his progress.
“He’s going to be very, very, very good… it doesn’t change anything on my support and confidence in his future.” —Toto Wolff, on Antonelli’s potential
At this stage in the championship, Antonelli has accumulated 66 points, placing him four points behind Williams driver Alex Albon.
The Growing Role of Fashion Among F1 Drivers
The visibility of driver personalities beyond racing has become increasingly prominent within Formula 1. The evolution in drivers’ fashion choices, led by figures such as Hamilton and now followed by younger talents like Antonelli, signals a broader trend where individuality is celebrated in the paddock. This change not only enhances fans’ connection to the sport but also contributes to the expanding cultural footprint of F1 around the world.
As Antonelli continues his rookie season, balancing fashion influence with on-track learning, his style journey reflects a new dimension of what it means to be a modern Formula 1 driver—one who must perform at the highest level while shaping a unique public image.
