Mercedes trackside engineering director Andrew Shovlin has highlighted the tactical awareness shown by Kimi Antonelli during the Mexico City Grand Prix, specifically regarding his decisive overtake on Charles Leclerc. The move proved critical in securing a podium finish alongside Max Verstappen and Lewis Hamilton, a trio that collectively holds 12 Drivers’ Championship titles.
A Calculated Risk
Addressing the decision to challenge Leclerc, Shovlin explained that Antonelli’s instincts as a racer drove the move. The opportunity arose after Leclerc experienced a significant lock-up during the race restart, which left his tires severely compromised. According to Shovlin, the Ferrari driver’s rubber was worn down to the canvas, prompting discussions within the Ferrari garage about a potential pit stop.
“Kimi saw an opportunity and it was, I think, the cleanest Turn 1 overtake we saw all day – on the brakes, ran him through the apex, and it was absolutely brilliant,” Shovlin told Formula1.com. He noted that the maneuver was a testament to the young driver’s ability to capitalize on a rival’s technical struggles.
Demonstrating Instinctive Skill
Shovlin pointed to this performance as evidence of Antonelli’s clinical approach to racing. He drew comparisons to the driver’s recent outing in Singapore, where he successfully navigated a battle against reigning champion Max Verstappen and Lewis Hamilton while managing his own degrading tires.
“Kimi is utterly clinical when it comes to doing the bit that comes instinctively, and that’s so impressive,” Shovlin added. The successful pass ensured that the podium featured a historic lineup, with team principal Toto Wolff remaining composed as the team celebrated the result.
