High expectations, a costly Q3, and valuable lessons
Kimi Antonelli cut a frustrated figure after Singapore Grand Prix qualifying, conceding he "drove it like an animal" in Q3 as he tried to extract a front-row lap from a Mercedes that looked strong all weekend. Trackside engineering director Andrew Shovlin explained that the rookie pushed too hard on entry and got too eager on the throttle, generating snaps and temperature that ultimately cost him grip and a shot at the front row. Antonelli still started fourth after a dominant pole by George Russell.
Despite the disappointment, Mercedes emphasized the positives. Antonelli’s early qualifying pace was highly encouraging, and his race performance lived up to it. Finishing fifth, the 19-year-old delivered speed that Shovlin described as "right on the money," reinforcing his rapid learning curve at F1 level.
Start line hiccup explained
Antonelli lost out at the launch to Lando Norris and Charles Leclerc. Shovlin pointed to the inside grid slot’s lower grip and a brief under-engagement at the start, followed by a slight over-correction, as the reasons his initial getaway was not optimal. With grip levels lower than expected on the inside into Turn 1, positions slipped — but were later recovered against Ferrari.
For Antonelli, Singapore offered both a reminder of how fine the margins are in Q3 and proof that his race craft and pace are developing fast.
