Kimi Antonelli will skip the Formula 1 Mexico City Grand Prix media day on Thursday due to a viral illness, according to his Mercedes team. The FIA granted the Italian a precautionary exemption from his promotional duties to allow him adequate rest before the weekend’s critical race. Mercedes confirmed that Antonelli is expected to return to full activity for Friday’s practice sessions, which commence at 18:30 GMT, ensuring he remains physically prepared for the championship decider.
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The timing of the absence is significant as Antonelli stands on the precipice of becoming the youngest world champion in Formula 1 history. Currently leading the drivers’ standings, the 17-year-old holds a commanding 123-point advantage over his Mercedes teammate, George Russell. This massive cushion provides Antonelli with substantial security, though he must still navigate the final race to secure the historic milestone.
To clinch the title on Sunday, Antonelli needs to limit his point losses in the race. He can secure the championship if he finishes no more than two points behind Russell and no more than one point behind Ferrari’s Lewis Hamilton. This mathematical threshold underscores the dominance of his season, as even a mid-pack finish would likely be sufficient to etch his name into the sport’s record books.
Source: BBC Sport
