Can a rookie keep the pressure on? Championship leader Kimi Antonelli has outlined the errors he aims to fix as the title chase tightens, earning a cheeky jab from Max Verstappen.
Verstappen clinched the United States Grand Prix at Austin from pole, marking his ninth win this year. The Austin triumph means a top‑nine finish in Mexico will seal the championship.
When asked about the season’s peaks and troughs, Antonelli admitted more work lies ahead.
“It’s been a pleasant surprise so far,” the Italian said after the race. “The battle isn’t over; I still crave strong finishes and a shot at victories.”
He added, “Ending on a high would be ideal, yet the campaign still reveals mindset tweaks and scenario handling that need polishing.”
Andrea Kimi Antonelli, Mercedes
“By season’s end I’ll review what clicked and what missed the mark. Consistency has defined my year, and I intend to preserve it right through the finale.” In my view, Antonelli’s consistency could reshape the title fight.
Pressing for specifics, he cited Australia FP3, a slip in Japan’s start, and Miami’s sprint where track‑limit breaches cost points. “Limits have been my biggest hurdle,” he noted.
Four‑time champion Verstappen, already out of contention, teased the infractions: “You only had one today.” Antonelli laughed, “Yeah, just one! Still, I need the right mindset in qualifying and race situations.”
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– The Team