P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Kimi Antonelli has explained how he began to struggle to handle the pressure of his waning performance after Mercedes introduced its ill-fated and short-lived rear suspension upgrade.
Kimi Antonelli acknowledged that mounting pressure contributed to his performance decline earlier in the season. As a rookie Mercedes driver, he initially excelled in F1 but faced a significant setback due to a slump in results. Despite viewing pressure positively, the 19-year-old admitted that it became problematic as he struggled to reverse his form decline. An unstable rear suspension update at Imola impacted Antonelli’s confidence, leading to a series of disappointing performances. Gradual improvements, including a podium finish and subsequent points at races like the Hungarian and Monza Grands Prix, followed once Mercedes adjusted the car. Antonelli remains determined to overcome the challenges he faced during the European season and regain his form on the track.
