Riccardo Patrese on Antonelli: “This is what Kimi needs to watch out for now”

Riccardo Patrese, who has competed in 256 Grand Prix races (six wins, runner-up in the 1992 World Championship behind Nigel Mansell), tells the Betpack website how he views the situation facing World Championship leader Kimi Antonelli and his closest rival, George Russell.

The 72-year-old Patrese says: “As far as the World Championship is concerned, it will be very difficult for his rivals to beat Kimi Antonelli, as he has a comfortable points lead and is currently making virtually no mistakes – he drives with his head.”

“Reliability can, of course, also play a part in the title race, but as things stand, Antonelli is the clear favourite for the World Championship title in my view.”

“It’s certainly difficult for George Russell to accept this, but the fact is that Kimi is beating him at the moment. As a racer, you always tell yourself that you can get even better, but that’s how it is right now – every time both Mercedes are running at full throttle, Kimi is stronger than Russell.”

“George Russell will be pleased that Max Verstappen has extended his contract with Red Bull Racing, as that removes that threat for him, but the Englishman has to accept that he is the number two at Mercedes.”

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Patrese also believes that Kimi Antonelli needs to watch out for Lando Norris and McLaren. Riccardo explains it this way: “I think Lando is a much better driver this year. He seems more relaxed and confident. He knows he can win, and that’s why he’s doing a very good job. In the last two races, he was, in my opinion, absolutely the best.”

“McLaren are also catching up again, so the combination of the two is getting stronger and stronger. Mercedes remain the favourites, of course, but the season is still long. We know from last year’s experience, when Lando was well behind Oscar Piastri and Max Verstappen was even further back, but by the final race it was a very close contest between Norris and Verstappen. So you never know. But if I had to pick, Antonelli is the most promising contender for the title.”