Kimi Antonelli has outlined the ongoing efforts within Mercedes to resolve what he describes as a fundamental start issue that has affected his performance during the opening phase of the 2026 Formula 1 season. The problem has been evident across multiple race starts, where Antonelli has consistently lost positions despite strong grid placements.
The issue has also impacted team-mate George Russell, indicating that the limitation is not purely driver-specific but linked to the car’s underlying systems. Key factors include clutch engagement characteristics, torque delivery, and the synchronisation between driver input and hybrid system response at launch.
Ahead of the Miami Grand Prix, the FIA has introduced a revised start procedure allowing the MGU-K to provide a compensatory power boost in cases of poor launch detection. This adjustment removes the previous restriction on electrical energy deployment below 50 km/h, aiming to reduce the severity of slow starts and improve overall safety.
However, Antonelli believes that this regulatory tweak will have limited impact on his specific issue, as the root cause lies deeper within the car-driver interface. He pointed to the need for adjustments in clutch paddle calibration and hand positioning, highlighting that the solution involves both mechanical refinement and driver adaptation.
During the recent break, Mercedes conducted extensive practice starts and simulator work to isolate the underlying problem. The findings suggest that resolving the issue will require a coordinated approach, combining setup changes with refined driving technique to achieve consistent launch performance.
From a technical standpoint, inefficient race starts can significantly compromise overall race outcomes, particularly on circuits where overtaking opportunities are limited. Losing track position early forces drivers into alternative strategies that can negatively affect tyre management and race pace.
Antonelli remains cautiously optimistic that incremental progress can be achieved in Miami, although he acknowledges that a complete solution will take time. With another break following the event, the team will have additional opportunity to continue development work.
The Miami Grand Prix will therefore act as an important benchmark for Mercedes, offering insight into whether the measures implemented so far can deliver tangible improvements in launch consistency as the 2026 season progresses.
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