Kimi Antonelli anticipates that overtaking at the Spanish Grand Prix will be extremely challenging. The Mercedes driver will start from second on the grid after narrowly missing pole position to Lando Norris. Despite the Madring circuit hosting its first Formula 1 race, Antonelli emphasizes that the start will be crucial for gaining positions.
In the post-qualifying press conference, Antonelli was asked if there was any chance of overtaking or if they would rely on chaos. Jokingly, he hoped chaos wouldn't involve Mercedes. "Hopefully. I mean, I hope no chaos for us. But seriously, the start is very important, and running to turn five will be key," he said.
Antonelli then compared the Madring to Monaco and Jeddah. While Monaco is more intense, Madring also demands extra effort for a perfect lap. "Overtaking, yes, I think it's going to be very difficult. In practice, I spent two laps behind the Williams, trying painfully to get past, but it was really difficult. Especially because the slipstream is already quite big and when you're behind, you start sliding more, making life tougher," he explained.
The Italian added that the only way is to pressure the car ahead, hoping for a mistake, or to play with strategy. "But when the gaps are so close, it's really hard to create an overtake opportunity. Jeddah, Baku, Monaco, Singapore, a bit of everything. Madring is in the middle, Jeddah is definitely more high-speed than this, Monaco is slower," he added.
Currently, Antonelli leads the drivers' championship by 66 points over his teammate, George Russell, thanks to his win in Monza. Russell will start from sixth, posing a huge challenge if he wants to beat his teammate in Madrid.
With a new circuit that is not yet fully understood, strategy will play a key role. Teams may need to experiment with pit stops and tire choices to create opportunities. Mercedes, with its competitive driver lineup, could use different tactics to secure maximum results.
The Spanish Grand Prix will test drivers' adaptability to the new circuit. With overtaking difficult, qualifying and strategy will be decisive. Antonelli, in top form, is determined to maintain momentum and extend his championship lead.
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