Antonelli's ambition 'spoils' Baku GP's sterling comeback

“Well, it’s a little bit disappointing because the podium was so close,” Antonelli admitted afterwards. “The hard tyre felt very good, quite a bit better than the medium. And the deg on the hard was minimal. You know, every lap was just getting better and better. So, it was a bit of a shame because I ended up being overcut.”

Antonelli had looked set to challenge Sainz in the final stint, but the Italian rookie explained how the Williams’ dirty air cost him the chance to attack. “I almost got into DRS of Carlos.

Mercedes had double reason to celebrate in Baku. Russell’s second place, combined with Antonelli’s P4, means the Brackley team leapfrog Ferrari in the standings. With seven races to go, Mercedes now sit P2 in the Constructors’ behind McLaren.

The battle for second, though, is far from done. Ferrari are still close behind and Red Bull could re-enter the fight. Helmut Marko hinted that with their form improving under new boss Laurent Mekies, the energy drink giant could yet complicate the battle.

For Antonelli, though, the focus is on his own progress and Sunday showed once again he is getting closer to mixing it with the front runners.

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