Young driver joins an exclusive F1 club that includes legends like Lewis Hamilton and Jackie Stewart

This Formula 1 season promises to be one of the most exciting in recent memory. Max Verstappen’s victory in Japan has tightened the Drivers’ Championship standings, offering a much-needed change from the dominance Red Bull Racing has shown in recent seasons. Fans, who were dissatisfied with the one-team show of the past few years, are now seeing new hope as iconic drivers like Lewis Hamilton join teams like Ferrari, while young talents are beginning to showcase their skills. The 2025 season looks set to offer a much different dynamic than we’ve seen in previous years.

The first three races have already set the stage for a thrilling season, with several surprising developments raising questions within the F1 world. McLaren’s car has been a focal point, with speculation surrounding its supposed edge due to a change in the DRS wing. Meanwhile, the FIA has made it clear that rules will be enforced strictly, setting the tone for the remainder of the season.

Another key storyline revolves around the young drivers. The controversy surrounding Red Bull’s decision to swap Liam Lawson for Yuki Tsunoda at the Japanese Grand Prix has sparked conversations about the rising generation of drivers and their potential in Formula 1.

Mercedes’ Kimi Antonelli stands out as one of the best examples of a young driver making an immediate impact. Last weekend, he joined an exclusive club, joining the ranks of Lewis Hamilton and F1 legend Jackie Stewart as one of the few drivers to break into the top six in their debut season.

Andrea Kimi Antonelli of Italy and Mercedes AMG Petronas F1 Team waves in the Paddock prior to practice ahead of the F1 Grand Prix of Japan at Suzuka Circuit on April 04, 2025 in Suzuka, Japan.

Antonelli’s impressive performance has made him only the third driver in the last 60 years to place in the top six of the standings in their F1 debut. With 30 points accumulated in the first three races, Antonelli is proving he has what it takes to succeed in Formula 1 after spending his early career in lower divisions.

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Hamilton still holds the record

As Antonelli joins an exclusive club in Formula 1, there’s another milestone within reach by the end of the season. Given the differences in how points were awarded back in 2007 when Hamilton set the record for most points in a season debut, Antonelli could be on pace to challenge that mark.

With a strong start to the season, including impressive performances in the first three races, Antonelli is well-positioned to surpass Hamilton’s record. At that time, Hamilton scored 109 points, and after just three races, Antonelli has already accumulated more than 30% of that total. With plenty of races remaining, Hamilton’s record could soon be under threat.

Other Hamilton records Antonelli could break this season

In addition to the points tally, Antonelli is also eyeing Hamilton’s podium record from 2007. Hamilton set the bar with 9 podium finishes that season, along with four victories, a feat shared with F1 legend Jacques Villeneuve.

With more races left in the calendar, Antonelli has showcased impressive form early in the season, and he could be one of the standout performers in 2025. His success also signals that the upcoming generation of drivers is more than capable of making history in Formula 1.