Kimi Antonelli is set to finish the Sao Paulo Grand Prix weekend on a high note after qualifying for P2. This position places him directly alongside polesitter Lando Norris, mirroring their previous placement in Saturday’s Sprint race.
Strong Qualifying Performance
Antonelli secured a commendable second place in Qualifying, finishing just 0.174 seconds behind Norris. His consistent performance has made claiming P2 a regular achievement throughout the weekend.
Reflecting on Qualifying
Following the session, Antonelli expressed a mix of frustration and optimism. “It’s a bit annoying to be P2 again, but still a good result on a difficult day,” he commented. He noted the challenge posed by gusty winds that affected grip and stability on the track.
- Track condition: Windy and unpredictable
- Qualifying result: P2, 0.174 seconds behind Norris
- Previous Sprint result: Second place
Comfort with the W16
Antonelli shared his appreciation for the W16 car, stating he has felt comfortable since the start of the weekend. He emphasized the enjoyable driving experience at Interlagos and credited the enthusiastic crowd for boosting his motivation.
Teammate’s Challenges
Meanwhile, George Russell faced difficulties during the Qualifying session. He reported significant grip issues, ending the session in P6. Russell described the qualifying as “strange” given the unpredictable tire performance that affected many drivers.
- Russell’s Qualifying Position: P6
- Main issue: Lack of grip
- Upcoming challenges: Racing Bulls ahead in the race
Looking Ahead
As the race day approaches, Antonelli aims to capitalize on his qualifying success. He is hopeful for a strong finish to the weekend, while Russell remains cautious about his prospects for reaching the podium.
Reflecting on the upcoming race, Russell stated, “I hope to move forward, but getting past the quick cars ahead will be difficult.”
