Andrea Kimi Antonelli is set to start the Italian Grand Prix at Monza from the back of the grid. This decision follows the installation of new engine components in his Mercedes car, incurring a penalty.
Antonelli, who celebrated his 20th birthday on 25 August, currently holds a 59-point lead in the Formula One championship standings. The team's decision to take the penalty at Monza reportedly prioritises his title bid, with overtaking opportunities at the circuit cited as a factor.
Qualifying for the Italian Grand Prix will still proceed, but the result will be academic for Antonelli due to his grid penalty. Meanwhile, Ferrari, with Lewis Hamilton third in the title race, is bringing a second engine upgrade this weekend to try and close the gap to Mercedes.