Mercedes intends to have Antonelli assist Russell at Monza.

      "We’ll give it a shot and see how it turns out."

      Mercedes is gearing up to strategically utilize Kimi Antonelli’s grid penalty during qualifying at Monza, as the championship leader is set to assist George Russell by providing a slipstream. Antonelli will start from the back due to a new power unit, rendering his qualifying position less significant at his home race. When asked if Mercedes had considered using him to aid Russell, Antonelli replied, "Yes, it has been discussed with the team." He added, "If the team asks me to help, I will. I’m willing to do anything to support the team." Russell confirmed the arrangement, stating, "They proposed it. We’ll try it out and see if it works." He emphasized, "This demonstrates that we are working as a team. I contributed to the team in Zandvoort, and Kimi will do the same for me here." Russell also mentioned he anticipates taking a power unit penalty later in the season. "Regarding penalties, I know I will also be penalized; we just don’t know yet when we will handle it." Meanwhile, Ferrari drivers are also preparing to collaborate when possible, though Charles Leclerc noted that neither he nor Lewis Hamilton will intentionally compromise their positions. "This weekend, Lewis will be the decision-maker, and I believe he’ll make the most of the slipstream opportunity," Leclerc stated. "But if we can assist each other while maintaining an optimal distance, we will certainly do that." Carlos Sainz, however, expressed skepticism about the effectiveness of planned towing. “Trying to slipstream each other hasn’t usually been very successful,” he commented. “It’s not as if it provides a significant advantage."