SPA-FRANCORCHAMPS: Kimi Antonelli showed relief and satisfaction on Sunday after taking full advantage of Mercedes team-mate George Russell’s misfortunes to extend his lead in the drivers’ championship with a calm win in the Belgian Grand Prix.
His victory ended a three-race winless streak and lifted the Italian 50 points clear of the luckless Russell, who slipped to third in the title race after colliding with seven-time champion Lewis Hamilton on the opening lap.
“It feels very nice to be back on the top step after a few difficult races,” said the 19-year-old Antonelli.
“It was a hard-fought race. We lost first place with the virtual safety car and then we managed to make our way back — and it was a tough win because Charles was quick and we had to hold on to that.
“I think the momentum was always there, so it was just about getting the result.”
