Aug.1 (GMM) Mercedes has made a major technical reset ahead of the Hungarian GP, reverting to its previous rear suspension layout following a string of underwhelming results and rising pressure on teenage rookie Kimi Antonelli.
The 18-year-old Italian, who replaced Lewis Hamilton this season, broke down emotionally amid a woeful weekend at Spa. In the days since, the team has moved to shield Antonelli by admitting its recent suspension direction was a misstep.
“Since we went on the new suspension, the car was a bit trickier to drive,” Antonelli explained in Budapest. “Especially on high-speed corners. Also, because of my driving style, I was making the car even more unpredictable, and that killed a bit my confidence.”
“I struggled to adapt. George (Russell), with his experience, adapted much quicker. But hopefully, going back to the old suspension will bring back that feeling I had before the European season.”
Auto Motor und Sport reported that Mercedes had followed a pitlane trend by modifying the car’s anti-lift behaviour at the rear – similar to Red Bull, McLaren, and Ferrari. However, the FIA clampdown on flexi wings may have added further complications.
Mercedes engineering boss Andrew Shovlin explained: “We retrofitted and had to live with what we had. The gearbox housing is a carryover from 2024 – there aren’t unlimited points to attach suspension elements.”
Russell, clearly the quicker of the Mercedes duo in 2025, said: “We’ve taken a step back. When you look at our performance collectively, we’ve both gone backwards.”
Still, Antonelli is also trying to reset mentally amid skyrocketing pressure and attention. “I did fun activities like driving my remote control car,” he said, describing his few days rest since Spa.
“Now I feel happy. I’m ready to give my best before the summer break.”
Get ready for the ultimate Formula 1 adventure at the Italian Grand Prix in Monza—a must for every racing fan! With Grand Prix Tours, you’ll enjoy premium accommodations, expert tour hosts, and exclusive access to one of the sport’s most iconic circuits. Feel the energy of the Tifosi, witness high-speed drama, and experience the electric atmosphere of Monza firsthand. Don’t miss your chance to be part of this unforgettable motorsport weekend—reserve your spot now and make memories that will last a lifetime!
SHOW PACKAGES
Take your Italian Grand Prix experience to the next level with the Italian Extravaganza! From September 8–11, 2025, enjoy exclusive tours of Ferrari, Lamborghini, Pagani, and more. Explore Modena, taste authentic balsamic vinegar, and even drive a supercar in Maranello. With expert guides and seamless planning from Grand Prix Tours, this is a motorsport dream come true—reserve your spot today!
SHOW PACKAGES
This world-famous event celebrates motorsports' golden age, transporting visitors back to the 1940s-60s when Goodwood Motor Circuit was Britain's premier racing venue. The restored circuit features exceptional wheel-to-wheel racing, while crowds embrace the nostalgic atmosphere with authentic period attire. A must-see experience for racing enthusiasts, vintage fashion fans, and anyone seeking an authentic step back in time.
SHOW PACKAGES
Join Grand Prix Tours for the 2025 United States Grand Prix in Austin, Texas at the Circuit of the Americas - one of the world's finest racing circuits. This year's event features one of six Sprint races on the F1 schedule. Grand Prix Tours offers a fully appointed, personally tailored race experience for passionate enthusiasts at what has become a great American tradition and another anticipated sold-out event.
SHOW PACKAGES
The Indianapolis 500 is an American tradition, and the 2026 race marks the 110th year of this historic event. Guests of Grand Prix Tours will enjoy premium accommodations, options for exclusive suite access, and unforgettable race-day experiences, including a police escort to the track. Highlights include visits to the newly renovated Indy 500 Museum, Gasoline Alley, and the Dallara IndyCar Factory, plus patriotic pre-race festivities like the singing of “Back Home Again in Indiana.” Join us for our 41st trip to the legendary Indy 500!
SHOW PACKAGES
The Monaco Grand Prix, often called the crown jewel of Formula 1, is one of the most prestigious races in the world and part of the Triple Crown of Motorsport alongside the Indy 500 and 24 Hours of Le Mans. Starting in 2026, the race will move from May to June to better align with the F1 schedule, placing the Canadian Grand Prix earlier in the season. Grand Prix Tours has taken care of all of the details and has arranged an amazing motorsports vacation. Call 949 719 3350 to book your trip or to contact us with any questions.
SHOW PACKAGES