Andrea Kimi Antonelli made a big splash in qualifying for the Chinese Grand Prix. The young Mercedes driver secured pole position in Shanghai after a spectacular lap in the final seconds of the session.
Antonelli: "I can't really believe it..."
At only 19 years, Antonelli confirms its immense potential and offers Mercedes Benz a complete front row ahead of his teammate George Russell.
Still overcome with emotion after his performance, Antonelli savored the moment.
"I can't quite believe it. The car was incredible and I managed to put everything together on my last lap."
The pilot Mercedes Benz He also wanted to thank his team.
"The whole team did a fantastic job. We improved in every session and it paid off today."
George Russell will launch itself right behind him.
"Kimi had an exceptional run. It's impressive to see how quickly he learns." the Briton acknowledged.
At Ferrari, Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc complete the second line.
Hamilton remains optimistic about the race. "The Mercedes front row is very fast, but over the distance of a Grand Prix, anything can happen."
Leclerc I share this opinion. "We're close in pace. If we get a good start, we can fight with them."
McLaren also hopes to play a role on Sunday. "A top-five finish is a good starting point for the race. Our race pace is often better," " has explained Land Norris.
Oscar piastri added : "The gaps are very narrow. A good strategy can change everything."
At Alpine, Pierre Gasly expresses satisfaction with the progress. We're getting closer to the top 10 steadily. The goal now is to convert that into big points.
MaxVerstappen, He did not hide his frustration after a difficult qualification.
"The car is unpredictable. When you can't push with confidence, it's very difficult to put in a good lap."
Antonelli He knows, however, that the hardest part is yet to come. "Pole is a dream, but the work is not finished. The race will be long and very competitive." »
China qualifying standings:
