F1 leader Antonelli braced for challenging Sepang track
KUALA LUMPUR: Mercedes Petronas driver Kimi Antonelli expects the abrasive surface of the Sepang International Circuit (SIC) to put significant pressure on his tyres and he is also braced for the unpredictable weather at this weekend’s Bahrain Grand Prix.
Kimi Antonelli, the Mercedes Petronas driver and Formula One Championship leader, anticipates a challenging track at the Sepang International Circuit (SIC) for the upcoming Bahrain Grand Prix. Antonelli explained that the abrasive and ageing asphalt of SIC will make tyre management a significant challenge. The old tarmac at this race circuit, which last hosted an F1 race in 2017, is known to aggressively wear down tyres, which could lead to high tyre degradation during the race.
In addition to the demanding track conditions, Antonelli also warned of the unpredictable weather at Sepang. Rain is forecasted for the weekend, and the heavy rainfall typical at the circuit could present a significant test for all drivers, especially given their limited experience with the current-generation cars on wet tyres. Antonelli emphasized that the team needs to be prepared for any weather conditions, as heavy rain can be quite common at Sepang.
This will be the first time the team will run the race with wet tyres, making it a considerable challenge for all drivers, particularly those with little experience in wet conditions. Despite the technical and weather-related hurdles, Antonelli stressed the importance of maintaining a focus on the enjoyment of racing. He urged drivers to remember why they chose motorsport in the first place and not to let the pressure of high expectations distract from the love of racing.
Written by urgent.news from New Straits Times's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
