Just in: Kimi Antonelli investigation lunched after Dutch GP as Mercedes set for…Read more

Mercedes has begun a detailed inspection of Kimi Antonelli’s W17 following the Dutch Grand Prix as the team looks to understand the circumstances surrounding the Italian driver’s performance at Zandvoort.
Antonelli finished second at the Dutch Grand Prix, securing another strong result for Mercedes as the 2026 championship battle continues. However, the team is now examining his car closely as part of its post-race analysis.
Mercedes’ inspection is expected to focus on the condition and performance of the W17 after a demanding race at the Dutch circuit. Engineers routinely conduct extensive checks after each Grand Prix, examining key components to identify any damage, unusual behaviour or areas that could affect reliability and performance at future races.
The Dutch Grand Prix proved particularly demanding for the field, with the high-speed nature of Zandvoort placing significant pressure on the cars. Mercedes will therefore want to establish whether Antonelli’s W17 suffered any mechanical or aerodynamic issues during the race.
Antonelli’s second-place finish nevertheless strengthened his position in the championship fight and provided Mercedes with valuable points. The result also highlighted the team’s competitiveness, although McLaren’s recent pace has raised questions about whether Mercedes still possesses the fastest package across every circuit.
The inspection could give Mercedes important information ahead of the next round of the championship at Monza. The Italian circuit presents a very different challenge from Zandvoort, with long straights, heavy braking zones and a requirement for strong straight-line efficiency.
Mercedes will be hoping that the post-race examination produces no major concerns and that Antonelli’s W17 is ready for the next challenge.
With the championship entering another crucial stage, every detail matters. Mercedes’ engineers will now use data gathered from Antonelli’s car to determine whether any adjustments are required before the Italian Grand Prix.
For Antonelli, the focus will be on carrying his Dutch GP momentum into the next race. A strong performance at Monza could further strengthen his championship campaign and underline Mercedes’ status as one of the leading forces in the new 2026 Formula 1 era.