Former W Series driver and Sky Sports F1 pundit Naomi Schiff warned on the Up To Speed podcast that Kimi Antonelli's body language in Baku suggested he was feeling the pressure of his maiden championship fight. The Mercedes driver arrived at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix with a commanding 81-point lead, which was reduced to 66 points after team-mate George Russell converted pole to victory while Kimi Antonelli finished fifth from 16th on the grid.
Naomi Schiff believes that if Mercedes proves as dominant as expected, other drivers including Max Verstappen Max Verstappen might eye his seat. Kimi Antonelli's contract expires at the end of the season with clauses allowing Mercedes an easy extension, putting unique pressure on him in just his second year.
Kimi Antonelli
Many see Mercedes as favourites for their first constructors' title since 2021. Guenther Steiner views George Russell as the man to beat in the championship after a brilliant campaign last year. Kimi Antonelli must not let uncertainty impact his performances while driving a car capable of making him F1's youngest world champion.
Schiff added that he needs to get out of his head, noting similar struggles last season that he eventually overcame. His hard racing against George Russell proves he refuses to play the little brother role.
Kimi Antonelli currently sits in 1st place in the drivers' championship with 320 points.
Source: Motorsport
