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Ayrton Senna’s former rival, Rene Arnoux, has explained why Kimi Antonelli’s start to the 2026 F1 season has reminded him of the legendary three-time world champion.
As far as comparisons go to F1 legends, being likened to Ayrton Senna is one of the highest compliments that one could pay to a current driver.
Rene Arnoux is well aware of the Brazilian F1 legend’s exploits in a single-seater, having raced against Senna during the second half of his career in the sport.
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In fact, one of the most notable moments from Senna’s rookie F1 season came at the Monaco Grand Prix, where his dazzling car control in wet weather saw him get the better of Arnoux while the Frenchman was driving for Ferrari.
It marked the first of 80 podiums for Senna in F1 machinery, and Arnoux has recognised a similar level of raw talent in the sport’s latest Grand Prix winner, Kimi Antonelli.
Rene Arnoux explains why Kimi Antonelli is now reminding him of Ayrton Senna
During a recent interview with La Gazzetta dello Sport, Arnoux touched upon the incredible adaptability that Antonelli has shown during his second season in the pinnacle of single-seater motor racing.
The Italian now leads the world championship after his victory at the Japanese Grand Prix, and became the youngest ever F1 driver to do so in the process.
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On Antonelli’s transition from his rookie campaign in the ground effect era to his sophomore term with a completely different set of technical regulations, Arnoux said, “It wasn’t a given that he would immediately feel so at ease.
“Especially since he has less experience than his teammate, George Russell. Among the drivers of the past, there was Ayrton Senna, who was able to get the most out of any conditions.
“The Brazilian had truly extraordinary talent, and he demonstrated it by winning and fighting for the title even with less-than-stellar cars. Kimi has had a different path; he’s never raced for a team like Toleman, but he’s shown his versatility.
“This year, he had to change his driving style compared to 2025, due to the regulatory overhaul, and in a short time, he’s reached an impressive level. I’m curious to see how much he’ll grow in the coming years.”
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Kimi Antonelli’s F1 career already shares some similarities with Ayrton Senna
Interestingly, Antonelli already shares some stark similarities with Senna that are in the statistics rather than in driving style.
The 19-year-old’s three podiums last year equal the amount that Senna secured during his 1984 rookie term. What’s more, both drivers secured their maiden Grand Prix victories at the second rounds of their sophomore campaigns.
Of course, it’s impossible to say that Antonelli will also go on to win 41 Grands Prix and secure three world titles, but it certainly is a coincidence.
With the calibre of car that he has under him this year, Antonelli will be hoping that he won’t need to wait until his fifth season in F1 before claiming a championship crown for himself
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