Antonelli points out this special surprise for heartwarming weekend in Imola

Antonelli currently sits sixth in the Formula 1 championship standings, two spots behind teammate George Russell, with 93 points. Mercedes is second in the constructors’ standings—not a bad place to be, though there's still clear room for growth.

Imola could be where Antonelli makes that step forward. With plenty of prior experience at the track, he's hoping for a strong result. After the Miami Grand Prix, he shared his mindset: "I mean, first of all, it's a track that I've driven in all the categories. So, and Barcelona as well. So, you know, I know the track well this time. But yeah, it's not that because I know it is going to be easy, it's definitely going to be important to be on top of the game."

Despite his familiarity with European circuits like Imola, Antonelli is realistic about what that knowledge brings. "I always try to for myself to keep expectations low of course you know I go on track and try to do my best of course."

Still, racing at home means something extra for the young Italian. "Got some of my best friends for sure at the weekend and my whole family and it's going to be really nice to have them. Extra support and extra good energy for the weekend."

Drawing on his past experience at the circuit, Antonelli hopes to deliver something memorable. "I think it's a lot about experience and getting confidence with the car and being able to push it more and more. I think I felt pretty good from everyone on that side. It was nice, it was a nice feeling also being able to put a lot more together. That was really positive."

The Italian will be aiming to turn that positivity into a standout performance at home.