'Russell had a wake-up call from Antonelli,' former F1 driver claims
· Yahoo Sports
Former Formula 1 driver Gerhard Berger is not ready to back Kimi Antonelli over George Russell in the title fight, pointing to last season as proof that the championship can quickly swing after Oscar Piastri appeared to be the clear favourite midway through the year.
Visit newsbetting.bond for more information.
After 11 races, Russell trails his teammate by 59 points in the Drivers' Championship. While both Mercedes drivers have suffered technical issues throughout the season, the Briton has been hit harder by reliability problems, although the young Italian has also consistently demonstrated superior raw pace and delivered stronger results on a more regular basis.
Speaking to F1.com, Berger said life at a top Formula 1 team always involves facing exceptionally fast teammates, arguing that Russell has simply found himself up against a particularly talented rookie. He described Antonelli as a special talent, but also pointed out that Russell has responded by pushing himself to the limit.
“This is F1. If you are in a top team in F1, you always have to deal with somebody coming in quick. I’m sure Lewis Hamilton also wishes sometimes for somebody other than Charles Leclerc, from a speed point! George had a wake-up call from Antonelli – Antonelli seems to be quite special, no question. George, I can see he’s pushing very much, I can see he puts it very much to the limit.”
Photo: Race PicturesPhoto: Race Pictures
Berger added that he would not bet on either driver in the title fight, believing Russell's greater experience could still prove decisive over the remainder of the season. He also pointed to last year's championship battle, when Oscar Piastri initially appeared to have the upper hand over Lando Norris before the latter turned the fight around to win the title, insisting this year's contest remains completely open.
“I don’t think it’s the right way to put money on it (who becomes world champion). One is the risky, young, hot blood, the other is already much more experienced and will play the ball back into Antonelli’s field. Last year, in the beginning, it looked like Oscar Piastri was going to beat Lando Norris, and Norris turned the page around and won the championship. That’s all open in F1. It will be open until the end.”
Coulthard makes striking 'Rocky' comparison over Russell's title chances
While history has shown that dramatic title comebacks are possible, Coulthard believes the Briton nowfaces a far steeper challenge than Max Verstappen did during his successful recovery last year.
Speaking on the Up to Speed podcast, the former Formula 1 driver said Russell's campaign has been shaped by an extraordinary amount of bad luck, with technical issues and setbacks repeatedly disrupting his momentum. Coulthard also highlighted the contrast with Kimi Antonelli, whose season has been far smoother in terms of reliability, allowing the Italian to drive more naturally.
Although he acknowledged Verstappen proved last year that large championship deficits can be overcome, Coulthard suggested Russell would need an almost unbelievable turnaround after everything that has gone against him so far, describing the remainder of the season as one that will ultimately test his character.