Kimi Antonelli has reassured fans about his physical condition following the heavy crash he suffered earlier this season, confirming that while he is still recovering from a minor injury, it has not affected his ability to compete.
The incident occurred during final practice at the Australian Grand Prix at the Albert Park Circuit. Antonelli lost control at high speed on the exit of Turn 2, resulting in a significant impact that raised immediate concerns about his fitness for the remainder of the weekend.
Despite the severity of the crash, the young Italian showed impressive determination. He managed to return in time for qualifying and set a crucial lap late in Q1, eventually securing an excellent second-place grid position. He carried that momentum into the race, finishing second and marking a strong start to his campaign.
However, it has now emerged that Antonelli did sustain a minor injury in the crash. Arriving at the Japanese Grand Prix, he was seen wearing a brace on his hand. Speaking to the media, he explained that medical checks revealed no fractures, but confirmed a ligament strain. As a precaution, he has been advised to wear the brace to aid recovery.
Antonelli emphasized that the injury is not serious and does not hinder his driving. He noted that he can comfortably drive without the brace when in the car, making it more of a supportive measure off-track rather than a necessity during racing. This reassurance has eased concerns about his performance going forward.
His results since the crash highlight his resilience. After finishing second in Australia, Antonelli went on to achieve a major career milestone by winning the following race in China—his first victory in Formula 1. The achievement underlined both his talent and his ability to quickly recover from setbacks.
Reflecting on the situation, Antonelli even joked about the timing of his success, suggesting the injury might have brought him luck and humorously hinting he could keep wearing the brace for the rest of the season.
Overall, while the crash in Melbourne was dramatic, its lasting impact appears minimal. With only a slight ligament strain and no limitations on his performance, Antonelli continues to show maturity, toughness, and impressive form early in the season.