Antonelli, who tops the championship by 81 points over teammate George Russell, crashed early in Baku qualifying.
The front‑left damage ended his run, allowing Russell to claim pole.
“Last season we saw him make mistakes and crash. This year he’s been clean, so his slip felt like a flash of the old Kimi—unnecessary for that gear.”
“Mistakes happen on a circuit like this, but in a Mercedes that dominates here, you shouldn’t risk it on Q1’s first lap.”
Andrea Kimi Antonelli, Mercedes
“The grip he had into Turn 1 caught him out. Qualifying always feels a bit more alive than FP3, and it surprised him. He’ll pay for it, but he can still recover tomorrow.”
Antonelli will line up 16th for the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, yet 1997 champion Jacques Villeneuve believes the Italian can fight his way back through the pack. For my money, Antonelli still has a shot at the title.
“It’s not ideal, but the current regulations do help drivers climb through the field.”
Photos from F1 Azerbaijan GP – Friday
We want your opinion! Who will claim the fastest lap tomorrow?
What would you like to see on?
Take our 5 minute survey.
– The Team