Andrea Kimi Antonelli spoke at a press conference ahead of the Miami race, the fourth round of the season.
Andrea Kimi Antonelli wants to pick up where he left off. The young Mercedes driver, currently leading the world championship with a nine-point advantage over George Russell, is coming off back-to-back wins in China and Japan, which allowed him to score his first and second career F1 wins in the space of a week. The Formula 1 season returns after a month-long forced break, and the numerous changes could disrupt, or at least narrow, the standings.
The Italian driver said in the press conference: “The changes represent a first step towards the right solution; we are working collectively. It’s great to be back where I scored my first Sprint pole. We’ll see how it goes. We’re bringing small updates compared to the large packages from others, like Ferrari and McLaren, who I believe will get closer. We’ll try to get the most out of the car and see how it goes.”
Antonelli then added: “The starts? I don’t think this rule change will help me, but we worked to solve the problem during the break and probably found it. Now we know what to work on to find the solution. We’re doing our best to get decent starts as soon as possible; we’ll see here in Miami.”
Regarding the world title fight, he then said: “Does Wolff demand respect between me and George? The team has been clear with us from the start: race against each other, but with respect and without doing stupid things. We both want to win, but we both want the best for the team. Russell and I know we can compete, but with mutual respect, and the team has given us the green light to have the same opportunities.”
And finally, his conclusion: “I’m aware of what’s happening to me, but I’m trying to focus on the track. I know I have to keep raising the bar because I have a strong teammate and rivals. The road is long, and I have to continue to prove myself worthy, getting the most out of my performance every time. What’s happened so far is great, but let’s get back to the point. I have to be ready to maintain or improve my level.”
Photo: Mercedes AMG Petronas F1 Team, F1.com
