Antonelli Reveals Mexico Illness Ahead of Historic Title Bid

Kimi Antonelli has revealed he spent the Mexico City Grand Prix build-up battling a high fever and stomach problems, but the Mercedes driver insists he is ready to chase the result that would make him Formula 1’s youngest champion.

Why it matters:

Antonelli needs only a ninth-place finish on Sunday to seal his maiden title. After a disrupted Thursday, when he was excused from media duties, his condition adds an unusual layer of uncertainty to a weekend that could end in history.

The details:

• Antonelli said his illness was “very bad” earlier in the week, leaving him low on energy and short of sleep.
• He qualified fifth but will start fourth after Max Verstappen’s grid penalty.
• The run to Turn 1 is the longest of the season, offering a chance to gain places—but Antonelli is prioritising a clean start at the “tricky” first corner.
• He believes Mercedes can move forward, though he admitted race pace is “still not as strong as Ferrari.”

What’s next:

Antonelli’s priority is recovery and a safe opening lap. If he can manage both, a ninth-place finish—or better—would complete one of the most remarkable title campaigns in recent F1 history.