Kimi Antonelli identifies qualifying as weak point, plans strategic shift in Austria. Kimi Antonelli has identified his main weakness after claiming his first F1 podium.

Kimi Antonelli has identified his main weakness after claiming his first F1 podium and has outlined his goals for the Austrian Grand Prix.

Heading into his first Austrian GP, Kimi Antonelli pinpointed qualifying performance as the weakest aspect of his rookie F1 season so far. Looking ahead to the weekend, the Italian driver plans to shift his approach, particularly during free practice sessions, where he admits to being too hesitant. He shared his thoughts with select media, including gp-news.net.

“My goal is to go into qualifying with as few surprises as possible,” Antonelli stated. “In Canada, every lap I felt I wasn’t using the grip to its full potential, and that leads you to chase the car and not really understand where the limit is.” That’s why in Austria, he aims to explore the car’s behavior more aggressively right from the start of the weekend.

Kimi Antonelli on Weak Points and Turning Moments
After ten races, Kimi Antonelli acknowledges that he’s taken too cautious an approach during race weekends, particularly in qualifying sessions. “Yes, I think I’ve been too conservative on certain occasions. In races, I’ve often felt more comfortable than in qualifying.”

This has affected his results, and the young Mercedes talent is now ready for a change in strategy. “Now I feel it’s the right time to make a step forward and not worry too much about making a few mistakes, especially during free practice.”

Kimi Antonelli’s Goal: Win a Race Before the End of the Season
The podium in Canada has boosted Kimi Antonelli’s confidence, and he’s now raising the bar. “Now that I’ve reached the podium, obviously the goal is to try to win.” The Italian driver is fully aware of the fierce competition from McLaren, Red Bull, and Ferrari.

“The level is extremely high, and even my teammate is a tough competitor. But if I can put everything together, I believe this goal is achievable.”

With renewed confidence and a more aggressive mindset, Kimi Antonelli is approaching the second half of the season with a fresh perspective. Austria could mark the beginning of a new phase in his F1 journey.