Antonelli embraces British Grand Prix vibe as he takes on home heroes Hamilton and Russell

Kimi Antonelli says he feels the support of the British Grand Prix crowd as he tries to expand his Formula 1 lead while racing against home favorites Lewis Hamilton and George Russell. Up to 180,000 fans are expected at Silverstone on Sunday, where the 19-year-old Mercedes driver will start from pole position aiming for a statement win and the chance to become F1’s youngest champion. A sixth Grand Prix victory would further narrow Hamilton and Russell’s title chances. Antonelli had a strong Saturday, passing Hamilton to win a sprint race before qualifying first, with Charles Leclerc and Hamilton third behind him. Russell struggled after winning last week in Austria, trailing Antonelli by 43 points, and Max Verstappen raised concerns about an issue affecting top speed.