India, Oct. 18 -- The current Formula 1 season is six races from its conclusion, and Kimi Antonelli looks poised to win his first World Championship.

Mika Hakkinen knows what it takes to win the coveted title in the most popular motorsport competition in the world. The two-time F1 champion, who was in Mumbai with Fancode, the official broadcasters of F1 in India, met with Hindustan Times on Saturday.

In a free-wheeling chat, he recounted his early days in the sport, relived one of F1's most iconic rivalries with Michael Schumacher, and backed India's return as a Grand Prix host.

It has improved massively in all areas and safety is a very important factor. I had experienced quite a serious accident in 1995 when I lost control and I crac...