Mercedes F1 Star Kimi Antonelli Blames Team’s Suspension Change for Disastrous Form!
In a shocking revelation that has sent ripples through the Formula 1 community, Mercedes rising star Kimi Antonelli has opened up about his catastrophic performance slump in 2025, attributing it to a controversial technical decision made by the team. The young Italian, known for his fierce determination, has claimed that a rear suspension upgrade introduced during the Imola Grand Prix in May has turned his season upside down, leaving him grappling with instability and lost momentum.
“Honestly, I think I’ve lost a good two or three months of progress,” Antonelli candidly admitted in an exclusive interview. His candid assessment highlights a troubling period where he struggled to keep pace with the competition, managing to score a mere three points during the European leg of the season—from Austria all the way to Monza. While teammate George Russell appeared to thrive, Antonelli was ensnared in a vortex of frustration, battling not only the car but his own confidence.
The turning point came at the Belgian Grand Prix, where the young prodigy faced humiliation, failing to advance beyond the first qualifying session while Russell stormed into the top 10. “It was a difficult period because I just kept losing confidence, driving super tense and I just really struggled to make any progress,” Antonelli lamented. His struggles were painfully evident, as he battled to adapt his driving style to the unpredictable behavior of the upgraded rear suspension.
Antonelli’s plight raises questions about the team’s decision-making process, as he speculated that a quicker return to the previous suspension setup could have changed the trajectory of his season. “If I either was able to adapt better or if I would have gone back earlier to the suspension, probably it would have been a bit different, and I would have been able to build momentum already at the end of the European season or halfway through it,” he reflected, hinting at missed opportunities.
However, the tides began to turn when Mercedes reverted to their old suspension in Hungary. This strategic move proved to be a game-changer for Antonelli, who quickly regained his footing and showcased his talent with two impressive podium finishes in the latter part of the season. By the end of 2025, he stood on the podium three times, a testament to his resilience and ability to bounce back from adversity.
As the F1 world watches closely, Antonelli’s journey serves as a potent reminder of how swiftly fortunes can shift in motorsport. With his sights set on future victories, fans can only hope that the young star has learned from these trials and will emerge more formidable than ever. Meanwhile, the decision-makers at Mercedes will undoubtedly be scrutinized for their handling of such a pivotal moment in Antonelli’s burgeoning career. The stakes have never been higher, and the pressure is on for both the driver and the team as they gear up for the next chapter.









