Kimi Antonelli, at just 18 years and 9 months old, has earned a remarkable podium finish at the 2025 Canadian Grand Prix. This milestone ranks him among the youngest drivers ever to stand on an F1 podium, highlighting a significant achievement for the promising talent in Formula 1 racing.
Comparing Antonelli to Other Young F1 Podium Finishers
Though Antonelli’s podium is an impressive feat, he trails slightly behind some of the youngest names in F1 history. Max Verstappen remains the youngest podium finisher, reaching the podium at 18 years, 7 months, and 15 days during the 2016 Spanish Grand Prix with Red Bull Racing. Verstappen’s debut was extraordinary, as he also became the youngest race winner at that event, shaking up the sport with his breakthrough performance.
Following Verstappen closely is Lance Stroll, who celebrated his first podium at 18 years, 7 months, and 27 days at the 2017 Azerbaijan Grand Prix. Stroll secured 15 crucial points after a dramatic finish, narrowly missing second place in a close drag race against Valtteri Bottas.
Other Young Drivers Making Their Mark
Beyond the youngest three, the list of outstanding early podium finishers includes Lando Norris, who achieved his maiden podium at 20 years, 7 months, and 22 days during the 2020 Austrian Grand Prix. Sebastian Vettel also stands out, having earned his first podium at 21 years, 2 months, and 11 days at the 2008 Italian Grand Prix, which marked a valuable milestone for Toro Rosso and Red Bull Racing alike.
The Rising Generation of F1 Talent
Kimi Antonelli’s achievement positions him prominently among emerging stars shaping F1’s future. As these drivers continue to display incredible skill and speed at such young ages, they demonstrate that talent and determination are key factors in reaching the sport’s highest levels.
This young generation, including Antonelli, Verstappen, and Stroll, are quickly rewriting the record books and inspiring racing fans worldwide. Their successes signal a dynamic and thrilling era ahead for Formula 1 and motorsport in general.
