Andrea Kimi Antonelli expects Formula 1 to be on the eve of some ‘major changes’ in the pecking order. Currently, his team Mercedes is still leading both championships, but the Italian expects that Ferrari in particular, thanks to the new ADUO rule, will soon put the Silver Arrows under pressure: ‘Due to the granted ADUO, Ferrari will certainly get closer, because their car is already strong’.
Read more Piastri opens up: ‘Feel more at ease than during my debut year’
Andrea Kimi Antonelli is currently the leader in the drivers’ championship. The youngest championship leader ever achieved two Grand Prix victories in a row in China and Japan, partly due to the current dominance of his Mercedes W17. According to Kimi Antonelli, however, it is only a matter of time before the competition – especially Ferrari – can keep up with the Silver Arrows again. “I know that major changes (in the Formula 1 field, ed.) are coming,” the Italian driver told Sky Sports Italy. “For example, the ADUO that has been granted to Ferrari. That will ensure that they can develop the engine much more. Because of this, Ferrari will certainly get closer to us, because their car is already strong.”
Kimi Antonelli refers to the Additional Development and Upgrade Opportunities (ADUO) rule that will come into force for the first time in 2026. The rule provides teams, during three periods of a season, who are estimated to be at least two percent behind the best-performing engine manufacturer, with an opportunity to further develop their engines. Mercedes is currently the best-performing engine supplier on the grid. “If Ferrari can improve their power unit, they will get even closer to us (Mercedes, ed.),” Kimi Antonelli also sees. “But I’m not too worried. As soon as I’m on the track, I do the same as always during a Grand Prix weekend: drive as fast as possible and focus on myself and what I have to do.”
Read more Mekies sees ‘burning desire’ at Red Bull to return: ‘They are in attack mode’
Updates for Mercedes
In addition, the Italian also expects that his team will certainly not stand still. “I am sure that we will also bring some important updates,” the Mercedes driver continues. “The car is already strong and the dynamics in the team are good. I’m not too worried about it, but I know that other teams will bridge the gap.”
Read more McLaren talent completes test at Silverstone: ‘Great to be back in the MCL60’
Read everything about the Miami GP here
