Formula 1 Driver Andrea Kimi Antonelli Struggles in Practice Sessions

Formula 1 driver Andrea Kimi Antonelli has revealed his struggles during practice sessions at the Suzuka Circuit, expressing feelings of being “lost” and having zero confidence. Despite securing a sixth-place start on the grid for the Japanese Grand Prix qualifying, the Mercedes driver admits that he found it a significant step forward.

Antonelli’s Struggles in Practice Sessions

In an interview with Sky Sports, Antonelli explained that his lack of confidence during free practice was primarily due to his inability to improve. “I’m not going to lie – in free practice, I was lost and had zero confidence,” he said. “Qualifying was a big step forward but I am disappointed I had to make such a step. It was way too big.

He further added that he arrived at qualifying with no confidence, stating that ahead of the next race, he needs to be more proactive in practice and try to find the limit better. Despite the challenges, Antonelli acknowledges that Suzuka is not an easy track and was new for him, but he believes he can do better to prepare for free practice sessions.

Weather Predictions and Race Preparations

Looking ahead to the race tomorrow and the predicted rain, Antonelli expressed that he wouldn’t mind if it rained, even for the first part of the race. He plans to analyze the data from today’s practice sessions to prepare for tomorrow’s race.

Grid Positions and Competitor Analysis

Max Verstappen secured pole position for the Japanese Grand Prix and will be joined on the front row by his McLaren rival, Lando Norris. Antonelli’s team-mate George Russell will start from fifth on the grid, a position he is not overly pleased with. “I was really disappointed with P5 as I have felt great all weekend,” Russell commented to Sky Sports. “It got a bit cooler in P3, I tried something different with the tyres and it just didn’t work. That is frustrating but it could be worse.

Despite his disappointment, Russell believes that starting from fifth place offers potential for a podium finish, especially with changeable conditions predicted for tomorrow’s race. “We are definitely there or thereabouts to fight for the podium, maybe not the win,” he added.