Source – Racingnews365
Shortly after making his F1 debut for Mercedes, Andrea Kimi Antonelli had a serious crash at the Parabolica.
Toto Wolff has shed light on the significant impact of Andrea Kimi Antonelli’s crash during FP1 of the Italian Grand Prix, revealing that the collision registered a staggering 45g of force. The crash, which saw Antonelli’s car end up in a state described by Wolff as resembling a “Lego box,” highlights both the dramatic nature of the incident and the resilience of the young driver.
The incident occurred just ten minutes into the session when Antonelli, filling in for George Russell, lost control of the W15. The car, which had been showing impressive early pace, spun at high speed and skidded across the gravel before slamming into the barriers broadside. The impact was severe, with the car absorbing 45 times the force of gravity—a testament to the violence of the collision.
Despite the terrifying nature of the crash, Antonelli emerged from the wreckage without major injuries. He was taken to the medical center for precautionary checks, but thankfully, he was soon reported to be in good condition. The severity of the crash, however, left a considerable mark on the car, leading Wolff to liken the wreckage to a child’s toy that had been tossed around.
Reflecting on the incident, Wolff expressed both relief and admiration. “Most importantly, he is okay because the crash was 45g,” Wolff told the media. He highlighted Antonelli’s youth and potential, emphasizing that such high-impact moments are part of the learning curve for any driver. “He’s very young and we are prepared to invest into his future, and these moments will happen,” Wolff continued. “They will continue to happen next year, but there will also be a lot of highlights.”
Wolff’s comments underscore the team’s belief in Antonelli’s capabilities despite the setback. The young Italian driver had shown remarkable promise during his brief stint in FP1, setting quick times and impressing with his speed. Upon returning to the garage, Antonelli, displaying a mature sense of responsibility, apologized for the damage to the car. His first run had been quick and promising, but the crash overshadowed what was otherwise a promising debut.
The damage to the W15 was extensive, leading Wolff to describe it as a “Lego box” that had been “falling on the ground and over the floor.” Despite the physical damage and the inevitable impact on the team’s plans, Wolff remains optimistic about Antonelli’s future. The incident, while dramatic, is seen as part of the growth process for a driver who is clearly making waves in the F1 paddock.
As the team prepares for the rest of the weekend, the focus will be on repairing the car and ensuring that Antonelli’s potential is fully realized in the future. For now, the Italian Grand Prix weekend has been marked by a sobering reminder of the risks involved in the sport, tempered by the promise of a talented young driver who has already shown he can rise above adversity.
