That is not the start to a race weekend anyone wants. According to Motorsport.com Italia, Andrea Kimi Antonelli is fighting off the aftereffects of a viral infection ahead of the Mexican Grand Prix, forcing him to skip all media commitments at the Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez.
Here is the thing, though: the situation is under control, even if it looks dramatic on paper. The Mercedes driver touched down in Città del Messico on Tuesday via a scheduled flight alongside several team members, but his health has not been at one hundred percent. While his condition has actually improved compared to yesterday, the medical staff at Mercedes decided to play it safe and keep their driver resting at the hotel rather than dragging him through the paddock.
The FIA officially excused the Italian from his mandatory media duties to give him the best possible chance at a full recovery. Mercedes released a brief statement confirming that Kimi is still on the mend from a viral infection, adding that they expect him back on track tomorrow.
Barring any unforeseen issues, the plan is for the Mercedes machine to be steered by Antonelli when the free practice sessions kick off. The team simply preferred to avoid a draining day in the paddock that could slow down his recovery, ensuring he rests up while there is still time before the real work begins.
