Kimi Antonelli’s F1 Canadian GP qualifying performance delivered P4 on the grid, though the Mercedes driver remained characteristically self-critical. The young Italian secured fourth place despite struggles with tire degradation in his final attempt.
Speaking after the session, Antonelli revealed his frustrations with the final stages of qualifying. He was on a used medium for his final attempt in Q3.
“I felt more comfortable with the C6 during the session,” he explained. “It still took a little bit to get up to the rhythm, but obviously having the used tyre didn’t help for the last lap.”
Antonelli struggled particularly in the lap’s second half when his used medium compound began losing grip.
“The tyre gave up second half of the lap and did a big mistake in turn 10 and then in the last chicane,” he reflected. “So obviously the time would have been quite a bit better, but yeah, still P4.”
Grid position sets up strong Race prospects
The starting grid makes for an entertaining start for the Canadian GP with four different teams occupying the top five positions. George Russell claimed pole position for Mercedes, followed by Max Verstappen‘s Red Bull and Oscar Piastri‘s McLaren. Antonelli rounds out the top four, with Lewis Hamilton completing the top five in his Ferrari. This puts both Mercedes cars in strong positions.
Antonelli’s F1 Canadian GP qualifying efforts showcase his improving comfort level with the car. The young Italian’s adaptation to his Mercedes machinery continues progressing despite the slight setbacks he has faced so far this season.
Race day optimism despite qualifying struggles
Looking ahead to race day, Antonelli expressed measured optimism about his chances.
“We need to see what is going to be the temperature tomorrow, if it’s going to raise or if it’s going to be cooler than today,” he explained.
Weather conditions will play a crucial role in determining race strategy and performance. The Canadian GP weather is known for being unpredictable and changeable, often featuring rain and fluctuating temperatures but this year it has been surprisingly sunny.
Antonelli’s long-run pace from Friday practice provides encouragement for Sunday’s race.
“Definitely the long-running in FP2 was quite decent,” he noted. “I felt good in the car, so hopefully we can have a good pace tomorrow and fight there at the front.”
The Canadian GP could represent an opportunity for his maiden F1 podium.
Development trajectory shows promise
The rookie has shown consistent improvement throughout his debut campaign with Mercedes. While still seeking his first podium finish, Antonelli’s Canadian GP qualifying performances demonstrate his growing confidence. Antonelli continues adapting to F1’s demands while learning from experienced teammate Russell.
Team Principal Toto Wolff praised Antonelli’s qualifying effort, recognising the challenge of extracting performance from used tires. His public support reflects Mercedes’ confidence in their young driver’s development trajectory.
The young Italian remains focused on maximizing every opportunity as he builds experience in F1. Rather than celebrating P4, Antonelli identifies areas for improvement, demonstrating the mindset required for F1 success. This perspective should serve him well as he pursues his first career podium finish at the Canadian GP.
