Kimi Antonelli reveals Mercedes' expectations for Sepang

Kimi Antonelli has revealed what Mercedes expects from its new upgrade package, which makes its debut at Sepang this weekend.

The German team has brought significant changes to the W17, including a new floor, revised elements around the sidepods and updates to the wings.

Antonelli said the engineers expect the upgrades to bring around three tenths of a second per lap.

“I tested the upgrades in the simulator, but it will be interesting to see how the car reacts on track. The engineers told us that it is a step worth around three tenths,” the Italian said.

Mercedes hopes the package will improve the car's performance through slow and medium-speed corners, with some of the developments potentially providing a basis for next year's car.