Kimi Antonelli secured a fortunate victory at the Spanish Grand Prix, capitalizing on a well-timed virtual safety car (VSC) period. Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff was quick to credit the 'racing gods' for finally smiling on his team.
The race at the Madring circuit was intense. Leader Lando Norris just missed the pit entry when the VSC was deployed for Lance Stroll's stopped Aston Martin. While Norris stayed out, Mercedes seized the moment and called Antonelli in for his pit stop under the caution. Norris pitted a lap later under green flag conditions, losing around 20 seconds. This allowed both Antonelli and Max Verstappen to jump ahead of the McLaren driver.
Antonelli then cycled into the lead once Charles Leclerc, who had run a long first stint for Ferrari, finally pitted. The young Italian then cruised to his eighth win of the season, extending his championship lead over teammate George Russell to 81 points. Russell finished fifth.
Remarkably, with eight grand prix victories in 2026, Antonelli has now won more races than Russell has in his entire career (seven). This achievement cements his status as a force to be reckoned with on the grid.
Speaking to Sky Sports F1, Wolff reflected on the race. "I think we've been mostly unlucky with virtual safety cars and safety cars this year," he said. "Today the race gods were with us. We literally pulled Kimi in when the VSC came out, and it is unfortunate for McLaren because they were fast. But Kimi drove very, very well."
Wolff also highlighted the team's rapid decision-making. "The process was great today. The strategy group had the VSC on their mind. Someone said: 'the Aston Martin won’t clear quickly’ and it was strategy to Peter Bonnington, Bono double-checked, and Bono to Kimi. All of that talking within three seconds."
This victory not only strengthens Antonelli's championship bid but also showcases Mercedes' strategic prowess under pressure. Meanwhile, McLaren is left to rue what might have been. The next race will be a test for rivals aiming to close the gap.
Baca Juga
Pembalap F1 mengkritik sirkuit Madrid setelah GP Spanyol yang minim overtaking. Kimi Antonelli menang, tapi balapan dianggap membosankan.
Max Verstappen ngamuk dipaksa Red Bull mengalah di GP Spanyol 2026, tapi bangkit finis P2 dan raih Driver of the Day. Simak drama radio dan analisisnya.
Toto Wolff membela George Russell dari kritik publik dan menegaskan tidak ada pilih kasih di Mercedes. Simak pernyataan lengkapnya di sini.
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