Rossi's legacy sets high bar for Antonelli: 'It'd be nice to experience that'

Antonelli currently leads the Formula 1 drivers' standings and is on course to become the first Italian driver to win the title since Alberto Ascari did so in 1953. After winning the Spanish Grand Prix, he now holds an 81-point lead over his Mercedes teammate, George Russell, in the standings.

The young driver is inspired by what Rossi achieved, he told Automoto Italy. "Very often, the races, he won them even before going down on the track.

Antonelli also highlighted the connection Rossi still has with his fans to this day, despite the former Yamaha rider no longer competing in the series. "He managed to attract a huge audience. Even today you can see people wearing his merchandise at MotoGP races even if he doesn't race anymore. It would be wonderful to recreate the same effect in F1: the esteem, the support, the cheering."

The Mercedes driver is close to many Italian athletes. "It's wonderful to have sports friends who compete at the highest levels, who understand what it means to manage pressure, the moments before a race, when you need to have your own space."

He mentioned long jumper Mattia Furloni and tennis star and multiple Grand Slam champion Jannik Sinner.

Antonelli also welcomed MotoGP title contender Marco Bezzecchi to his garage at Monza. "I consider Bezzecchi one of my best friends. We support each other, and when I can, I go to his races. When we are at home, we both go out for dinner together, and our groups of friends have joined. What he does is really crazy."