Kimi Antonelli delivers 'in control' warning as F1 title fight resumes

Kimi Antonelli has asserted that he feels “stronger” as a competitor as he takes control of the drivers’ championship.

Following his victory last time out in Japan, Antonelli moved to the top of the standings, having secured his maiden win at the previous round in China.

The 19-year-old is competing in his second F1 season and is targeting an improved campaign after a challenging rookie year, during which he struggled at times.

This included a run of races in Europe where he found it difficult to score points.

However, as he embarks on his second season, Antonelli believes he is in a much stronger state.

"I think overall I feel stronger, I feel more in control of the situation," Antonelli told media includung RacingNews365.

"Having done all the tracks last year, it's helping this year so far. Having done a race weekend helps, I know better what to expect.

“I know better how to move around, ⁠how ​to manage myself during the weekend. This might even help in those tracks where last year I struggled a lot.”

“So definitely the ​experience of last year is playing a massive role in this year so far. I just feel more relaxed, more confident, as I said before, more in control of the situation."

The F1 season will resume next weekend in Miami after a five-week break as Mercedes aim to continue its dominant form and extend its winning streak.

“The goal already from Miami is to be back from where we left in Japan,” Antonelli added.

“Or even be back even stronger from where we left.”