"Not so simple" for Kimi Antonelli to correct his poor starts in F1

The youngest championship leader in history and the second youngest Grand Prix winner since his victory in China, Kimi Antonelli is dominating the start of the 2026 season. However, one small hitch has disrupted the Italian's momentum: the start. Despite his victory in Japan, his second consecutive win, the Bologna prodigy didn't hide his frustration at Suzuka. The reason? A sluggish start from the gate that could have cost him dearly.

A weakness that did not escape his mentor's notice. Toto wolffwho didn't miss the opportunity to tease his protégé on Sky Sports. F1 that holds the top spot. " These young people are learning to drive in driving schools with automatic transmissions, so we need to teach them how to release a clutch slowly, smoothly, and without rushing. "The Austrian leader was amused.

Kimi Antonelli had promised he would use the spring break to work on his Achilles' heel. No sooner said than done. We did some practice starts during the break. he confirmed at a press conference in Miami. We worked with the team to try and identify the source of the problem, and it seems we've found it."

Departures that need fine-tuning

However, a lightning-fast start shouldn't be expected right from the Miami Grand Prix. My problem is more fundamental, so this adjustment isn't going to help me massively., explains Antonelli, referring to the changes made by the FIA ​​during the break. Now, we're obviously trying to find a solution as quickly as possible, and we know what we need to work on to achieve it. It won't be simple, as it requires modifying the clutch paddle and also slightly changing the hand positioning. So it certainly won't be immediate. But we're doing our best to find this solution as soon as possible so we can achieve proper starts."

We will therefore have to wait before seeing any real progress. Since we have another break after Miami, this will give us more time to work on and finalize this solution."

In Miami, Kimi Antonelli will likely have to rely on his race pace to compensate for a potentially shaky start. But the Bolognese driver's lead is shrinking. Because with the upgrades brought by each team, the dominance of Mercedes Benz is in danger. Lando Norris has already put an end to the Silver Arrows' one-two finishes in qualifying. The championship leader must now address its only weakness, as its rivals will show no mercy.

ALSO READ > 2026 Formula 1 Miami Grand Prix – Saturday's Schedule