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Mercedes Reinstates Older Suspension for Antonelli as Team Backs Rookie Through Slump

Support from Lewis Hamilton alongside a switch to older-spec suspension aims to rebuild the 18-year-old’s confidence following a series of point-less races

Overview

  • Mercedes has reverted Andrea Kimi Antonelli’s W16 to an older suspension spec for the Hungarian Grand Prix after three races without points
  • Lewis Hamilton has offered Antonelli direct mentorship and reassurance in the paddock to help him navigate his early-career challenges
  • George Russell said the W16’s performance downturn, not solely driver error, narrowed lap-time gaps and undercut both teammates’ results
  • Trackside Engineering Director Andrew Shovlin indicated that no bespoke upgrades are planned beyond providing Antonelli with a consistent car setup
  • Former F1 driver Martin Brundle urged Mercedes to protect the rookie’s mental resilience and prevent further confidence erosion