Culture & Entertainment · Singapore Bureau
Antonelli prioritises team strategy at Monza despite back-grid penalty
Mercedes Formula One driver Kimi Antonelli has defended his qualifying performance at the Italian Grand Prix, stating he fulfilled his role as a supportive teammate by assisting George Russell secure a front-row grid position.
LSN Singapore ·
MONZA, Italy — Mercedes' Kimi Antonelli said he acted as a team player during Saturday's qualifying session at Monza, acknowledging his own back-grid starting position while his teammate George Russell secured a place on the front row of the grid.
Antonelli's qualifying contribution helped Russell achieve a strong grid position for the Italian Grand Prix, a result Antonelli characterised as consistent with his responsibilities within the Mercedes team structure.
The move reflects a common Formula One strategy where team orders and tactical decisions influence qualifying outcomes, particularly when one driver faces penalties or other disadvantages heading into the race.
Russell's front-row spot provides Mercedes with a strong platform for Sunday's race at the historic Monza circuit, while Antonelli will attempt to recover positions from his starting position further back on the grid.