Kimi Antonelli ill ahead of the Mexican GP: fever, nausea, weakness, fear of the start

This is the most important day in Kimi Antonelli’s racing career: on 1 November 2026, the 20-year-old Italian could become the youngest Formula 1 champion.

Over the past few weeks, the mischievous Kimi has played down the pressure. He has repeatedly given the same line: “I’m taking it one race at a time and trying to make the most of every outing. The rest will follow naturally.”

That has always been Max Verstappen’s mantra too, and the Dutchman has performed just as brilliantly for years as Antonelli is doing today.

But of course, winning the title and the stress of six races over seven weekends do not leave a top-class sportsman unscathed – not even the seemingly ever-carefree Kimi.

For the first time, the man from Bologna has now admitted: it’s not always all laughter, pranks, tomfoolery and victory champagne.

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On Thursday, the Mercedes driver cancelled all his engagements, and there were good reasons for that, as Kimi has now admitted for the first time: “I had a high fever, and my stomach was playing up. It wasn’t easy. I feel quite all right now, but I’m still low on energy.”

“I feel sluggish, and I knew before the race in Mexico that I had to find a way to get some rest. Because I hadn’t been able to sleep well over the past few days. I hope I’ll be in better shape for the Grand Prix.”

Following Max Verstappen’s penalty (a one-place grid penalty for his unnecessary tussle with Liam Lawson in free practice), Antonelli will start from P4.

Kimi knows: “It’s a long way from the start to Turn 1, so I need to get off the line well. Obviously, I want to make up a few places straight away. But I also need to make sure I stay out of any trouble, because everyone knows how tight it can get here in Mexico at Turn 1.”

“If I manage a good start, then I can fancy a chance of the podium. I reckon Ferrari have better race pace than us, but I still believe we can put on a good Grand Prix.”