Kimi Antonelli Penalized for Austrian GP Incident Involving Max Verstappen
Kimi Antonelli has received a three-place grid penalty for the upcoming British Grand Prix following a collision with Max Verstappen at the start of the Austrian Grand Prix. The incident occurred on the opening lap as Antonelli attempted to avoid a crash ahead but ultimately locked his rear brakes, colliding with the Red Bull driver.
During the stewards’ investigation, it was determined that Antonelli was solely to blame. "Taking evasive action led to the car having less grip on the dirty inside line," the stewards noted, explaining that this resulted in Antonelli’s inability to avoid the crash. Both drivers were subsequently eliminated from the race.
In the hearing, Antonelli acknowledged his error, stating, "I made a mistake as I locked up the rear wheels while using my regular braking point." The stewards, recognizing the circumstances of the incident, decided against a lenient appraisal typically applied to Lap 1 incidents, concluding that it was a failure to control the vehicle rather than a reckless maneuver.
In addition to the grid penalty, Antonelli has accrued two penalty points on his racing license, his first disciplinary marks. Verstappen, despite the incident, expressed understanding, stating, "It happens – every driver has made a mistake like that… Kimi is a very big talent."
The three-place grid penalty will impact Antonelli’s performance in next weekend’s race at Silverstone, marking a critical point in his rookie season.
