Antonelli reveals 'plot' behind Mercedes qualifying shock

Kimi Antonelli has pinpointed a “big plot of gravel” as the reason behind his early qualifying exit at the Australian Grand Prix.

Antonelli failed to progress behind the opening phase of the session and is due to line-up in 16th place for the start of the race.

It marked a disappointing result for the Mercedes rookie, who has been signed by the Brackley-based squad in place of now-Ferrari driver Lewis Hamilton.

Antonelli's car had a notable issue during the session as it produced an alarming volume of sparks along the straights when the car dragged along the asphalt.

The 18-year-old denied he damaged the car by running too far wide, planning the blame on gravel that was deposited on the circuit.

“I did the same line as FP3,” Antonelli told media including RacingNews365. 

“There was just there was a big plot of gravel on the kerb, and when I went through it, picked up quite a big bit of damage.

“I was losing quite a bit on the straights because the floor was scrubbing on the track.

“I lost quite a bit of aero load, because the floor was not aligned as well.

“One part was on the on the tarmac, scratching. So definitely that was quite important.”

Antonelli's team-mate George Russell ended the session in fourth place - leaving Antonelli to rue what could have been.

“The pace of the car is there,” he said. “It’s very tight because every team now is getting closer to each other.

“That’s why it's quite disappointing because we definitely could have thought for a much better position.”