Kimi Antonelli admits he was ‘drained mentally’ before a key Mercedes change fueled his title push

Mercedes driver Kimi Antonelli revealed he felt mentally drained during his rookie season before team adjustments helped fuel his 2026 title bid. Ahead of his first opportunity to clinch the Formula 1 World Championship at the United States Grand Prix, Antonelli holds a 102-point lead over teammate George Russell. The Italian explained that managing outside distractions during his home race in Imola last season proved to be a critical turning point.

Antonelli stated that he now feels far more protected by Mercedes, allowing his support team to manage external pressures so he can focus entirely on driving. F1oversteer highlights how Toto Wolff's management and Antonelli's personal growth helped the teenager overcome early setbacks, positioning him to become the youngest champion in Formula 1 history.