FIA Investigates Antonelli and Mercedes for Unsafe Release in Abu Dhabi FP3

Mercedes driver Andrea Kimi Antonelli is currently under investigation by the FIA following a pit lane collision with Yuki Tsunoda's Red Bull during FP3 at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. The incident, which occurred in the closing minutes of the session, saw Antonelli's Mercedes released into the path of Tsunoda, resulting in damage to both cars.

Why it matters:

• An unsafe release penalty could impact Antonelli's standing in a crucial weekend, especially as he navigates his rookie season and aims to secure his F1 future.
• For Mercedes, a penalty could reflect on their operational standards, potentially affecting team morale and reputation.
• The incident highlights the critical importance of pit lane safety and efficient team communication under pressure, a common area of scrutiny in F1.

The details:

• The collision happened when Antonelli was released from his garage by Mercedes as Tsunoda's Red Bull was driving down the fast lane of the pit lane.
• Antonelli's car made contact with the right-rear corner of Tsunoda's Red Bull, causing damage to the floor and bargeboard area of Tsunoda's car.
• Antonelli's Mercedes sustained damage to the left-hand endplate of its front wing.
• Team Radio Communications:
  • Tsunoda reported the incident to Red Bull: "I had a massive crash. ****." When asked about damage, he responded: "I think so. But he has the damage on the side of the sidepod."
  • Antonelli's team radio footage revealed he was told to go "straight out" by a Mercedes mechanic. Immediately after the collision, Antonelli said: "Ah, man. Yuki. You told me yes and it was... Tsunoda was coming."
• The FIA has formally launched an investigation into the incident, focusing on a potential unsafe release by Mercedes.
• Antonelli and Tsunoda, along with representatives from both Mercedes and Red Bull, have been summoned to meet with the stewards at 16:40 local time in Abu Dhabi.

What's next:

• The stewards' decision will determine if any penalties are levied against Antonelli, Mercedes, or both.
• Potential penalties could range from a grid drop for Antonelli, a financial fine for Mercedes, or a reprimand.
• This incident adds another layer of pressure for Antonelli as he continues to adapt to F1, with the outcome potentially influencing perceptions of his rookie performance and Mercedes' operational precision.