Antonelli crashes into wall in Azerbaijan qualifying — Cyprus Mail

Mercedes’ Italian driver Kimi Antonelli crashed into the wall at the first corner during the opening part of qualifying for the Azerbaijan Grand Prix in Baku. Due to broken suspension, the 20-year-old Formula 1 championship leader was unable to continue the session and will start the race from 16th position.

As Cyprus Mail reports, Antonelli called the mistake unnecessary and explained that he had misjudged the level of grip on the track. According to him, the incident served as a reminder of the need to stay focused at every moment.

Pole for Russell

Antonelli’s Mercedes teammate George Russell took pole position for the Azerbaijan Grand Prix. After 14 rounds of the season, Antonelli leads Russell by 81 points in the championship standings.

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Before the Azerbaijan round, the Italian had a chance to claim his third consecutive victory and ninth of the season. At the same time, a hydraulics problem during the first practice session on Thursday cost him valuable track time. Since then, Antonelli had been trailing Russell, who felt more confident on Baku’s six-kilometre street circuit.

An attempt to recover

Antonelli hopes that Mercedes’ speed will help him regain positions in the race. At his home Italian Grand Prix in Monza, he had already climbed from 19th place to first.