NEWS
Sheer Class! Even a soon-to-be champion can still surprise
Despite the impending World Championship title, Antonelli surprises with pole position. Will he already crown himself champion and claim the historic title?
That was a great performance!
Andrea Kimi Antonelli traveled to Austin with the chance to win his first World Championship title at just 20 years old.
Although the young Italian still depends on favourable results from rivals in the USA, he secured the best starting position with pole from his perspective.
Even for Mercedes, it's quite satisfying despite their clear championship lead after two winless races. Toto Wolff and co. had struggled with the update package two weeks ago in Malaysia. But now the "Silver Arrows" have secured pole position again.
Antonelli pleased: "I'm happy, but it's going to be very tight"
Naturally, Kimi Antonelli was very pleased in the post-interview. "I'm happy about pole, but it's definitely going to be very tight," explained the Italian.
Because in Austin, pole position is not necessarily decisive for a race win. The track is characterized by a unique first corner, steeply uphill before a rather tight left-hand turn. Often there are already several overtakes in the first corner.
Antonelli also seems to be aware of this. "I have to make sure I'm in front in the first corner," explained the (likely) soon-to-be World Champion.
Verstappen a bit annoyed: "I slid around a lot"
For Max Verstappen, qualifying also went quite positively. Actually, with Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc setting the best times in practice, the Ferraris looked like the favorites.
Ultimately, however, Verstappen battled with Antonelli for pole. But in the end, it wasn't enough for the Dutchman.
"I had no balance and slid around a lot," said the 29-year-old. Nevertheless, satisfaction outweighed for the 73-time race winner. "It's second place, and I'm happy to take that," he added.
Of course, Verstappen wants to extend his winning streak. He led Red Bull back to success with victories in Malaysia and Singapore and is aiming for his third consecutive victory of the season.
Whether he will also achieve victory in the USA or if Antonelli might already be celebrating the World Championship title, will become clear on Sunday.
