Kimi Antonelli delivers George Russell relationship prediction

Kimi Antonelli is confident his relationship with George Russell will not deteriorate as the season wears on.

The Mercedes duo have emerged as the favourites for the drivers' championship this year following the Silver Arrows' dominant start.

Antonelli leads the standings after winning two out of the opening three grands prix, while Russell is nine points back, having emerged victorious at the first race in Australia.

Antonelli insisted there has been no change in the dynamic between himself and Russell as they both set their sights on a maiden title.

“The relationship is very strong, it hasn't changed,” Antonelli told media including RacingNews365.

“There's a lot of respect between us, we've been working very well so far, and there's a very good dynamic in the team.

“I feel like I can be a challenger. That's what I'm here for, I want to race to win, and I want to race to win races and championships. That's my goal.”

Mercedes is not a stranger to handling intra-team title fights, having witnessed Lewis Hamilton and Nico Rosberg go head-to-head across three seasons.

While their relationship turned frosty, Antonelli has suggested his partnership with Russell will remain unaffected as they both work to deliver success for Mercedes.

“This year, it's a massive opportunity for all of us and especially also for me and George, because we have a very strong car,” he said.

“Both of us, we don't want to waste these opportunities, so we're going to do our best. But we're also very aware that it's very important to keep a good dynamic in the team.

“That's what we're doing. Of course, we have our own goals, which is to win and to be the best.

“But at the same time, we want to help the team in the best way as possible to achieve also their goal, which is to win as well the constructors' championship. 

“I believe that our relationship is strong and will be strong for the rest of the year.”