Giovinazzi Reveals Supporting Messages from Hamilton and Verstappen Among Other Drivers Amid Exit from F1

As Alfa Romeo celebrated Kimi Raikkonen’s retirement from the sport, the team also bid adieu to Antonio Giovinazzi. Although Giovinazzi wasn’t too happy about the reasons behind Alfa Romeo showing him the door, Gio revealed other drivers offered him comfort.

A lot of drivers expressed sadness to see Gio leaves. However, he showed his appreciation towards the championship protagonists. “Both Hamilton and Verstappen have both written me a good message, and these are things you appreciate because it means that they follow you.” 

Having raced against the Dutchman before, Giovinazzi added, ” I already knew him very well and therefore these are gestures that you appreciate very much.” 

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However, the list went on. “Not only from them, but also Gasly, Ocon, Perez, and I received the welcome from all the Formula E drivers that I will meet this year.”

Antonio Giovinazzi tells all

In the radio interview, Giovinazzi also revealed how the news was first broken to him. With the final Alfa Romeo seat being the only vacant seat in the drivers’ market, all eyes were on Giovinazzi. Then, an Alfa Romeo showroom in China congratulated their driver; this was how Gio found out.

“How bad was I? I don’t want to be a liar, certainly a lot, because in any case, you know I come out of Formula 1, at least for now, in my best year, at least in terms of performance.”

Further, Antonio’s successor, Guanyu Zhou, brings some necessary sponsorships with him. As a result, the Italian once again shared his distaste for the outcome. “I have always been almost always ahead of Kimi Raikkonen who is still a world champion and is, therefore, a good reference. I am only sorry for that. But these things happen, and it is not the first time that a pilot has arrived… yes, money commands.”

Now, Giovinazzi looks to make an illustrious career in Formula E, where he will continue his time behind the wheel. Now we head to the final two races where we see the much-loved ‘Italian Jesus‘ behind the Formula 1 wheel.

Read more: Why Is Kimi Raikkonen So Popular Among F1 Fans?