Former Alpine team principal Otmar Szafnauer said Kimi Antonelli must improve his ability to bring a compromised car to the finish line if he hopes to win Formula 1 titles.
Szafnauer made the comments during an episode of the High Performance Racing podcast. He highlighted Michael Schumacher's skill at nursing damaged cars, noting races where the seven-time champion finished with only fifth gear available.
The 19-year-old Antonelli placed 15th in the British Grand Prix at Silverstone after a dislodged wheel shield caused steering problems. A track limits penalty left him without points despite earlier contention for the lead.
Szafnauer described the skill as another tool needed for championships and suggested Antonelli may acquire it with more experience. The next round, the Belgian Grand Prix at Spa-Francorchamps, is scheduled for 17-19 July.
