Kimi Antonelli tops rankings ahead of Spanish Grand Prix in Madrid
Mercedes driver Kimi Antonelli has topped the ranking of Formula 1's strongest drivers ahead of the first Spanish Grand Prix on the new Madring circuit in Madrid, Spain. According to The National, the Italian arrives at the round as the championship leader, with seven wins in 13 races and a 66-point advantage.
In Monza, Antonelli won after starting from 19th position. The publication notes that he became the first Italian to win at the Monza circuit since 1966. At the previous round in Zandvoort, the Mercedes driver finished second.
Norris and Russell among the pursuers
Lando Norris of McLaren took second place in the ranking. After winning in Zandvoort, the Briton finished fourth in Monza, climbing from eighth on the starting grid. The ranking's author believes that the fast sections and sustained lateral loads of the Madrid circuit should suit McLaren's strengths.
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George Russell of Mercedes was third after finishing third in Zandvoort and second in Monza. In its Spanish Grand Prix podium prediction, the publication placed Russell third, citing the Mercedes car's balance on circuits with varying levels of downforce.
Verstappen's experience and Lindblad's progress
Max Verstappen of Red Bull took third position in the ranking. The Dutchman did not finish his home race in Zandvoort, but in Monza he started fifth, took the lead and finished third. According to The National, his experience could prove important on a circuit new to the paddock.
The top 10 also included Lewis Hamilton, Pierre Gasly, Oscar Piastri, Charles Leclerc, Arvid Lindblad and Nico Hulkenberg. Lindblad, who races for Racing Bulls, has scored points in seven of the last eight races. At Madring, drivers will have to tackle 22 unfamiliar corners for the first time, and the publication expects a difficult and chaotic weekend.
