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Mercedes eyes F1 title but ignores Antonelli's potential win
17 Oct
Summary
- Mercedes deputy principal downplays Antonelli's title 'match point' chance.
- Antonelli leads championship by 102 points over teammate Russell.
- Mercedes focuses on Constructors' Championship amid Red Bull gains.
Mercedes Deputy Team Principal Bradley Lord is discouraging premature focus on Kimi Antonelli's potential Formula 1 drivers' title, even with a 'match point' opportunity at the upcoming US Grand Prix in Austin. Antonelli currently holds a significant 102-point lead over teammate George Russell.
Lord described the current phase as uncomfortable, with a low probability of Antonelli clinching the championship next week. He stressed that the team's priority is to maximize points and regain ground in the Constructors' Championship, where Red Bull and Ferrari have shown increased pace. Mercedes leads Ferrari by 134 points and Red Bull by 246 points.
The team's operational performance has been exceptional, particularly during a challenging triple-header. Despite facing unexpected changes in pit crews due to injuries, Mercedes achieved the fastest pit stops for two consecutive races, highlighting their high level of execution. Lord praised the team's resilience and performance during the demanding end-of-season stretch.