The Canadian Grand Prix was one of those moments that can define the relationship between teammates. For the first time Russell and Antonelli came to close combat, not without taking risks, especially in the Sprint. The Mercedes drivers are still free to race, provided that the internal competition does not turn into a real war, like the one between Hamilton and Rosberg in 2016.
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Free to race
A few hours after his fourth career victory, Antonelli comments on the duel with Russell and the agreement reached in the meeting after the Sprint: “Today I have to say it was a nice battle, but there were still moments that were a bit on the edge. Surely [Saturday] we cleared things up and that was the most important thing. We are free to race, but obviously with respect, because you never want to have an accident with your teammate. There are still a couple of things to clarify, but Saturday’s meeting was very important.”
The Montreal weekend highlighted how the dynamics between the two Mercedes drivers are definitely different from last year: “Surely the relationship had already changed a bit. Now we find ourselves in a position where we both fight for wins and the championship, even if I don’t like to talk about it, because it’s still a long way to go. Last year we never found ourselves in such a position, so it’s normal that the dynamics change. The important thing is that there is still respect between us. We don’t want an internal war, because we want the best for the team and for it to remain a good dynamic. We don’t want a repeat of 2016 between Lewis and Nico, even internally it’s not good for the team. Surely the dynamics have changed, but the environment in the team is always very good.”
Three years of experience in one
The evolution of the relationship with Russell is also a direct consequence of Antonelli’s greater awareness: “I know I can beat him and that I can win, even if every weekend is different. George is very strong and on this track he has always done very well. This weekend was more difficult and I also feel I didn’t perform at my best. I think I wasn’t as determined as in Miami, I didn’t feel 100%. Last year getting close to George and staying ahead of him sometimes was a good result. This year obviously the tune has changed and it’s very different, but I still know I have to keep raising the bar.”
Although Russell’s retirement paved the way for Kimi’s Canadian success, stringing together four consecutive wins remains an extraordinary achievement for the Italian driver, especially compared to last season’s results. Antonelli continues: “Last year it’s as if I gained three years of experience. I went through many episodes and gained a lot of experience, both in good moments and bad ones. That taught me a lot and is helping me this year. There is still a lot of work to do and many things to learn. Also the fact that the car is fast and the team is doing an incredible job helps. I, as a person and as a driver, however, feel calmer, more in control of the situation and more aware of my potential.”
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