Kimi Antonelli reported a notable improvement in his confidence after Mercedes reverted to an older suspension specification following the Hungarian Grand Prix. Although he qualified 11th, the change made the car noticeably easier to handle, marking a shift in performance for the 18-year-old driver.
Antonelli Highlights Impact of Returning to Previous Suspension Design
Since Formula 1’s return to racing on European circuits, Antonelli has faced challenges, accumulating only six points across multiple events. Despite continuing difficulties this weekend, the switch back to the old suspension spec provided the young driver with renewed confidence in the Mercedes W16.
I think the confidence was there because lap one in Q1 was good,
Antonelli explained.
Then lap two in Q2 was wet in sector two and then, on the new tyre, I don’t know what happened.
Already, from Turn 1, I lost the rear completely and it’s a shame, because I definitely had more confidence. But once again, things didn’t go my way.
Antonelli described the improvement due specifically to suspension, calling it “a different story” after the team meeting that led to the decision.
Team’s Collective Choice to Revert Suspension Spec
The change came after a collective assessment by the Mercedes team, with both Antonelli and teammate George expressing a preference for the older suspension setup experienced earlier in the season. The modification was intended to help drivers regain stability and better performance.
Definitely was a different story this weekend,
Antonelli said.
I think as a team, we had a meeting as well, and we saw that with the suspension, both me and George felt better at the start of the season. So it was a decision that we took as a team.
The stark contrast in how the car handled led Antonelli to express regret that Mercedes had not made the switch sooner.
He added,
It’s a bit of a shame that we didn’t go earlier to the old suspension because definitely today, this weekend overall, I felt far more confident in the car than I was before.
Reflection on Conditions and Missed Opportunities
Antonelli noted that changes in track conditions, such as lower temperatures and increased grip, further contributed to the car’s improved potential with the old suspension. He lamented that these factors combined with the earlier setup might have produced better results.
It’s a shame, because I think today, the result could have been much better. Conditions were different since this morning, a lot different. Temperature was much lower and grip was higher. So there was a lot more potential on the table.
This development comes as the Mercedes team continues to refine their approach for the remainder of the season, hoping to convert improved handling into stronger race finishes and consistent points. Antonelli’s experience underscores how technical decisions such as suspension setups can significantly affect driver confidence and competitiveness on demanding circuits like Budapest.
