Antonelli to miss Mexico media day with illness

Kimi Antonelli will not attend Thursday’s Mexico City Grand Prix media day because of an illness, organisers have said; the absence comes as he stands on the brink of securing his first world title.

Kimi Antonelli has been withdrawn from Thursday’s Mexico City Grand Prix media day after falling ill, organisers said. The announcement confirmed he will not take part in the scheduled press and promotional activities ahead of the race weekend.

The absence comes at a critical moment in the season, with Antonelli positioned to clinch his first world championship. His non-attendance is likely to draw particular attention from media and fans given the significance of the title race.

Media day typically includes interviews, photo shoots and promotional commitments for drivers and teams, and Antonelli’s planned appearances will be missed. Organisers and his team have not detailed any replacement appearances or changes to the media schedule.

No further information on the nature of the illness or on whether it will affect his participation in the race itself has been released. Updates are expected as the weekend progresses and official statements are provided.

Antonelli’s absence underlines the heightened scrutiny around the closing stages of the season, when every public engagement and race result attracts amplified interest because of the championship implications.