Kimi Antonelli has declared his performance in Las Vegas as the highlight of his Formula 1 season. The rookie driver executed a remarkable strategy, managing to keep a single set of hard tyres for an impressive 48 laps. This decision led him to a podium finish, marking a significant achievement in his debut year.
Las Vegas Grand Prix Highlights
During the Las Vegas Grand Prix, Antonelli faced a challenging situation. After being eliminated in Q1, he chose to make an early pit stop on Lap 2. This bold gamble paid off as he successfully managed his tyres throughout the race, finishing initially in fourth place. However, a five-second penalty relegated him to fifth place, only for him to be later promoted to third due to the disqualification of both McLaren drivers.
Race Performance
Antonelli moved up an impressive 14 positions during the 50-lap race. He expressed that this particular race demonstrated his growth and ability to manage the race’s challenges effectively.
- Race Strategy: Opted for a one-stop strategy, which was risky but ultimately successful.
- Podium Finish: Secured third place, marking his third podium of the season.
- Position Gain: Made significant advancements, overtaking 14 cars during the race.
Team Dynamics
This race also contributed to a strong performance for Mercedes. George Russell, after battling steering issues, finished in second place, thus helping Mercedes stretch their lead to 40 points over Red Bull in the Constructors’ standings.
Russell, reflecting on the Las Vegas race, acknowledged the team’s collective efforts and expressed optimism about the upcoming races. He stated that solid finishes are crucial as they aim to finish in a strong position this season.
- Mercedes Standings: P2 position in the Constructors’ Championship.
- Future Focus: The team is now looking ahead, aiming to secure results in the next races.
Kimi Antonelli’s performance in Las Vegas is hailed as a milestone in his career. As the F1 season progresses, he looks forward to continuing this upward trajectory, building on the skills and experiences gained throughout the year.
