Antonelli Asserts Mercedes Showed Greater Potential in Mexico Qualifying
Kimi Antonelli expressed optimism about the untapped potential of Mercedes following the Qualifying session for the Mexico City Grand Prix. The 20-year-old driver secured sixth position on the grid but felt he could have achieved a better result.
Performance Insights from Qualifying
During the practice sessions on Friday, Antonelli demonstrated competitive speed, finishing second in one session and third in another. However, his performance dipped on Saturday during Qualifying, where he finished over half a second behind pole-sitter Lando Norris.
Reflecting on his performance, Antonelli noted, “I think there was a little bit more. Q1 was really scrappy, and I couldn’t find my rhythm. Q2 felt rushed, but Q3 was cleaner.” Despite his struggles, he remains hopeful about the race ahead and stated, “The start is going to be very important. Hopefully, we can gain a few places and fight for the front.”
Team Dynamics and Grid Positions
- George Russell, Antonelli’s teammate, qualified fourth.
- Max Verstappen, the reigning World Champion, positioned himself between the two Mercedes drivers.
- The Ferraris of Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton outqualified both Mercedes drivers.
Russell expressed surprise at the qualifying order, particularly being positioned behind both Ferraris. He stated, “P4 was a decent result. Typically, being behind two Ferraris, we’d expect to be at P5 or P6.” He also highlighted the importance of the first turn, suggesting that race strategies could evolve during the race.
Strategic Outlook for the Race
Russell noted the close battle for grid positions, with Oscar Piastri qualifying just one-tenth of a second behind him in eighth place. He emphasized that maintaining a strong race pace could provide opportunities. “Turn 1, Lap 1 is crucial, but chances always arise during the race,” Russell remarked.
As the Mexico City Grand Prix approaches, both Antonelli and Russell are poised to make strategic moves, hoping to capitalize on any opportunities in front of them.
