21/09/2025 14:02
Composure in chaos delivers Antonelli’s strongest Saturday since Canada
Andrea Kimi Antonelli produced a standout fourth place in Baku qualifying after a calm, clean build-up across practice. In a session riddled with red flags and mistakes, the Mercedes rookie stayed within himself to outpace team-mate George Russell for only the second time this year.
The mental game: why he looked away
Antonelli admitted that watching others crash can subtly affect his own push and confidence. At times, he chose not to look at the stricken cars to avoid dialing back on subsequent runs — a small but telling detail on managing pressure.
Winds make it a ‘lottery’
Gusty, unpredictable winds complicated every apex. Antonelli believes he lost two to three tenths to a tailwind gust on his final lap, potentially costing a front-row start alongside pole-sitter Max Verstappen.
Key points
- P4 grid slot: his best since Canada and a timely response to recent criticism.
- Measured build-up: clean practice sessions boosted confidence and rhythm.
- Focus on execution: eyes forward for a strong points haul on Sunday.
