OMM Redaksiyası
Formula 1 championship leader Kimi Antonelli described the Azerbaijan Grand Prix in Baku as the toughest weekend of his season. The “Mercedes” driver started the race from 16th after making a mistake in qualifying and finished fifth.
The 20-year-old Italian driver’s difficulties did not end there. He encountered hydraulic system problems during Thursday’s free practice session. During the race, contact with a “Haas” car also affected his result.
Antonelli limits the losses
Antonelli, who has won eight races this season, had been targeting a third consecutive victory after his success at the Italian Grand Prix. However, his main objective in Baku was to score as many points as possible.
“Honestly, this was the worst weekend of the season. I always felt one step behind. My confidence level was not high, especially after the mistake in qualifying,” Antonelli said.
His fifth-place finish was in stark contrast to his result in Italy. Despite starting 19th on the grid in that race, the driver crossed the finish line in first place.
Russell cuts championship deficit
Antonelli’s teammate George Russell won in Baku. It was the British driver’s third victory of the season, reducing the championship gap from 81 points to 66.
Antonelli said he believed he would return to his previous form at the next race. “I think this weekend taught me a lot. I will work to return to our previous level at the next race,” he said.
Antonelli continues his bid to become the first Italian Formula 1 world champion since Alberto Ascari in 1953.
