Kimi Antonelli and the new dimension of time The Mercedes driver talks about his relationship with speed, precision and IWC Schaffhausen

Kimi Antonelli has a unique relationship with time. The Mercedes driver is known for having an almost infallible memory when it comes to his lap times, not only in Formula 1 but also in the categories that came before him on his path to the top of motorsport. For Antonelli, time is therefore not simply a benchmark to beat on track, but something to know, remember and interpret. It is only natural, then, that a relationship of trust has developed between him and a brand like IWC Schaffhausen, following the partnership that has linked the luxury watchmaker with the Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS Formula One Team since 2012.

The latest result of this long-standing collaboration is the Pilot’s Watch Chronograph 41. A robust chronograph featuring a deep, saturated purple dial. Antonelli wears it when we meet him on the eve of the Italian Grand Prix at IWC’s official event at Lubna Milano: "The name Pilot is spot on, the watch looks great and you can wear it every day. Then there’s the purple colour, which is my absolute favourite, because in motorsport it symbolises speed and high performance."

I have to admit that before entering Formula 1, before joining forces with the team and becoming part of the IWC family, I wasn't particularly interested in watches. However, thanks to this partnership, I have developed an interest in the world of watchmaking. So much so that a week ago I went to Schaffhausen and visited the IWC factory, where I saw how the watches are made and learned about the techniques and processes involved. It was a really interesting and fascinating experience, because the world of watches is similar to F1 in many ways.

This is our second interview with Kimi Antonelli. In the 12 months that have passed between our first and second meeting, Antonelli has gone from being the young rookie taking Lewis Hamilton’s seat at Mercedes to becoming the leader of the drivers’ championship and the leading candidate to win the 2026 world title: “I’m not the best driver yet, but let’s say I’m up there,” Antonelli replies when we ask him what it feels like to be the best driver in the world. “I have to admit that my life has changed so much and I’m really happy with the situation I’m in. I’m also very grateful for all the opportunities I’ve been given and continue to be given. Obviously, I try to do my best and make the most of every single opportunity, but I have to admit that I’m going through a really great moment, both on and off the track.”

I’ve matured a lot compared to last year, both as a person and as a driver. I’m much more confident in myself, I have more control over the situation and I have a clear goal in mind. In short, I’ve matured a lot compared to last year, both as a person and as a driver. Despite the difficult moments, I learned so much last year, actually much more than I expected. This year I’m more mature, more confident in myself, I have more control over the situation and I have a clear goal in mind. I’d like to achieve certain goals in my everyday life too, to be happy. I already am, I absolutely have nothing to complain about, but I want to continue living a happy life both on and off the track and then, yes, keep doing what I love most.”