Antonelli explains how he mastered F1's new power units

Kimi Antonelli has described how he adapted to Formula 1's new power units, which were the biggest engine change since 2014. For 2026 the MGU-H was removed and power output was split roughly 50:50 between the combustion engine and electrical systems, a significant shift from the previous season's 80:20 split in favour of the combustion engine.

Antonelli said the new cars required him to change his approach depending on the track. He said he tried to drive as naturally as possible during pre-season and then adapted to how the power unit reacted, adding that it had not been easy given the scale of the change. Antonelli went on to win nine grand prix races to team-mate George Russell's three as of the Sao Paulo GP, and clinched the title in Mexico City.

Looking ahead, Antonelli said he hoped the driving challenge would ease for 2027, when the split will move towards greater combustion engine reliance, saying it should be a bit easier for everyone.