Kimi Antonelli insists he’s not feeling “more pressure” despite holding a surprise nine-point lead in the Formula 1 world championship.
The 19-year-old, embarking on only his second F1 season, has impressed with his racecraft and poise after claiming his first-ever F1 victories in China and Japan last month.
While his Mercedes teammate George Russell – in his eighth season in the sport – is still the title favourite and is only nine points behind, the Briton experienced mechanical issues in Shanghai and bad luck with the timing of the safety car at Suzuka. With Mercedes occupying the quickest car on the grid, Antonelli took full advantage.
Many are talking up the Italian’s championship chances but, amid the enforced April break due to the cancellation of races in the Gulf, Antonelli insists he is not experiencing any extra pressure despite his tag of title leader.
“I’m aware of the increase in support and following after first two wins, that’s been very nice,” he said in a media call on Friday. “But I don’t feel more pressure. I know expectations are higher because I’m coming from two wins and a strong start to the season.
“But I keep my focus on the process and what I have to do, I don’t want to put too much emphasis on the final result. I feel the same pressure that I felt at the start of the season.
“I’m just trying to keep myself grounded and focus on the ultimate goal and how to get there.”
Antonelli, who replaced Ferrari’s Lewis Hamilton at the Silver Arrows last year, also mirrored Russell’s call for teamwork earlier in the day, believing the pair’s relationship will be “strong until the end of the season” even if there’s an intra-team title fight.
“We’ve been working very well so far, there’s a very good dynamic in the team,” he said.
“I feel like I can be a challenger and that’s what I’m here for: to win races and championships, that’s my goal. Of course, this year is a massive opportunity for all of us, for me and George, we have a very strong car.
“Both of us don’t want to waste this opportunity but we’re also very aware of keeping a good dynamic in the team and that’s what we’re doing. We have our goals to win and be the best, but at the same time, we want to help the team.”
F1 next races in Miami on 3 May.
