Antonelli prepared to relive Verstappen's 2021 title battle with Hamilton

The seven-time world champion finds himself back in title contention for the first time in five years, following his now-iconic championship battle with the Dutchman, which culminated in the dramatic Abu Dhabi finale where the Red Bull driver came out on top, leaving the former Mercedes driver heartbroken after missing out on the title.

Speaking to GPBlog in Austria after being asked whether he would feel ready for a title battle similar to the one Hamilton and Verstappen fought in 2021, the championship leader admitted he is preparing himself for any scenario. Antonelli said he knows opportunities to fight for a world title do not come around every season, stressing that he wants to be ready to give everything if the chance becomes more realistic later in the year. At the same time, he acknowledged that he still has a great deal to learn and plenty of experience to gain, but believes everything he has learned so far will help him if the title fight intensifies.

Kimi Antonelli has joined George Russell in highlighting the growing threat posed by Lewis Hamilton and Ferrari in the championship battle. The Mercedes driver believes Hamilton has found strong momentum after claiming his first Ferrari victory in Barcelona two weekends ago, with the seven-time world champion now emerging as one of the key names in the title fight.

Antonelli stressed that Hamilton's experience makes him particularly difficult to handle when he senses a chance to fight for victories and the championship. He also pointed to the Briton's recent form, especially his final stint in Barcelona, as proof that he is increasingly comfortable with the car. With Ferrari also continuing to improve its package, Antonelli expects a close battle, although he warned that the title fight should not be reduced only to himself, Hamilton and Russell, given how quickly things can change with so many races still remaining.