By: A racing driver behind the wheel and a television presenter in front of the camera: different roles, but one great passion for motorsport and speed. That is probably the best description of Vicky Piria, a woman who has fulfilled her dream of making the world of motors her life, both as a driver and as a member of the Sky Sport F1 team.
A role through which she enters Italian homes to cover the Formula 1 World Championship, bringing the technical expertise acquired over years of racing and her energetic, versatile personality. Between races, she found the time to grant this writer an exclusive interview, discussing current affairs and giving her view on the 2026 F1 season.
Kimi inspires confidence
When discussing the current top-tier motorsport season, it is impossible not to mention Andrea Kimi Antonelli, the young driver from Bologna who is sweeping aside his rivals in his Mercedes and achieving great things. In only his second year in the Circus, alongside George Russell, he leads the World Championship and is heading towards an exciting title fight. A driver whom the Sky presenter has known well for years, she said she was genuinely pleased for him and has great faith in what he can achieve.
"I think he can be world champion this year. Absolutely. It is a long year, with many difficulties. I would not take Mercedes’ superiority for granted; there are many unknowns. I see McLaren being quick at some Grands Prix but inconsistent, like Red Bull. Ferrari could be a serious challenger, as we have seen. Nothing is certain, but in terms of talent Kimi has everything it takes to become world champion. I am certain of it".
Many unknowns...
Still on the Italian driver, Vicky then commented on the moment Italian motorsport is experiencing, aided by Antonelli’s exploits. Despite several unknowns and difficulties, he can perform well and do even more for Italian motorsport.
"Kimi will have to manage everything, of course. We are talking about motorsport, and there are often many situations beyond the driver’s control; just think of reliability. We will have to see, but I am confident. May I add something? Antonelli is also doing good for Italian motorsport, providing the same kind of boost that Sinner is giving tennis. For now, Ferrari are missing and there is him: hopefully they will all be there very soon".
