Mercedes have dominated F1's 2026 season proceedings so far, scoring a 1-2 finish at both of the opening Grands Prix. Antonelli was able to achieve his maiden Grand Prix victory last time out in China, shortly after George Russell won the opening race of the season in Australia.

However, F1 will not have any racing next month, in April, due to the ongoing conflict in the middle east. Therefore, whilst Mercedes currently hold strong momentum and pace, the other teams now have an entire uninterrupted month to try and catch up.

Antonelli stated: "Obviously, it's a shame. It's never good to have a break, especially when you have such momentum, also for the team. Talking with team members, they all would like to have so many races in a row, especially now that we've got the momentum."

The Italian added: "To be fair, you need to look at the positive sides of it, which is - you get a bit of time to reflect and to try and analyse where are the areas where you have to work on. As a driver, obviously get a bit of time to rest and and then as well, to look back at these three races and see what went well."

Reflecting on his victory at the Chinese GP, and on if this changes his approach to racing, Antonelli stated: "No, it's still the same. I think the only difference is that the win gave me a bit more awareness on the potential, on what is possible to achieve. But in terms of approach, I want to keep it the same."

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