Kimi Antonelli is on the verge of making motorsport history at the United States Grand Prix this Sunday. Should he succeed, the young driver would become the first Italian Formula 1 world champion since Alberto Ascari achieved the feat in 1953. Despite the significant pressure of the impending title, Antonelli noted that he feels more relaxed and is enjoying the experience more than usual.
His performance on Saturday at the Circuit of the Americas reinforced that confidence, as he secured a surprise pole position, finishing 0.179 seconds ahead of Red Bull’s Max Verstappen. This result marked a return to form for the driver, who had not claimed a pole since the Belgian Grand Prix in July, following a period where Mercedes’ early-season dominance was challenged by both McLaren and Red Bull. His excitement was evident as he cheered over the team radio. And his delight was clear as he whooped over the team radio on his slowing down lap.
Antonelli can clinch the world championship title on Sunday if he wins the race, provided that his Mercedes team-mate George Russell finishes lower than eighth and Ferrari’s Lewis Hamilton finishes below fourth. Currently, Hamilton and Russell are slated to start the race from fifth and sixth positions respectively.
