At the 2025 Emilia Romagna Grand Prix in Imola, 18-year-old Mercedes rookie Kimi Antonelli experienced a powerful and emotional moment in the team’s motorhome. The young Italian driver was moved to tears after reading a handwritten message left for him by seven-time World Champion Lewis Hamilton. The note, written on the wall of the driver’s room after Hamilton’s final European race with Mercedes at Monza in 2024, offered heartfelt words of encouragement and wisdom.
In a video shared by Mercedes on X (formerly Twitter), Antonelli is seen reading the message with visible emotion. Though he chose to keep most of the note’s contents private, he shared that Hamilton welcomed him warmly to the team, wished him the best for his journey ahead, and left him with a meaningful piece of advice: “If you care for them, they’ll care for you.” Hamilton’s words highlighted the strength and unity within the Mercedes team, a sentiment Antonelli deeply appreciated.
The note has since been preserved under glass, becoming a symbolic source of inspiration for the young driver. Antonelli described the message as “amazing” and said it showcased Hamilton’s human side beyond his legendary racing achievements. For Antonelli, a native of Bologna—just 30 minutes from Imola—the gesture was especially poignant as he raced in front of a home crowd.
This act of mentorship by Hamilton, who has since moved to Ferrari, reflects the sportsmanship and legacy he leaves behind at Mercedes. As Antonelli embarks on his Formula 1 career, the message serves as both a personal encouragement and a reminder of the values that define great champions. Hamilton’s thoughtful farewell gift marks a touching bridge between generations, and a strong vote of confidence in Antonelli’s future.