Kimi Antonelli still hasn’t won everyone over; Herbert talks about luck

The internal rivalry at Mercedes between Kimi Antonelli and George Russell isn’t solely based on on-track performance. Johnny Herbert, a former British driver and current television commentator, is convinced that luck has also played a significant role in the balance of the rivalry between the two teammates, with Russell more often penalized by technical issues and unforeseen events.

Speaking to Betpack, Herbert emphasized that the young Italian has faced fewer obstacles capable of compromising his results compared to his British teammate. A difference that, according to the former driver, has helped shape the balance of power within the Brackley team.

“It’s tough—if you look across the garage, Kimi Antonelli isn’t having as many problems that ruin his race. It’s clear that George is a bit unluckier,” Herbert said, highlighting how the unpredictable nature of Formula 1 can also affect a driver’s overall performance.

This analysis is not intended to downplay Antonelli’s achievements, but rather to highlight how adverse incidents can influence a season. Herbert did, however, clarify that neither of the two Mercedes drivers was completely spared from difficulties, while acknowledging that Russell faced a greater concentration of setbacks: “Mercedes had technical problems and setbacks on both sides of the pit, but especially on George’s side,” added the former British driver.