Kimi Antonelli and Valtteri Bottas will both miss Formula 1 Media Day at the Mexico City Grand Prix due to illness.
As the 2026 season enters its closing stages, Mexico marks the round where Antonelli will likely take his maiden championship title, breaking the record as the youngest F1 champion in history.
However, the weekend has gotten off to a jilted start. The young Italian is unable to attend Media Day. Mercedes released a statement, saying Antonelli is recovering from a viral illness.
Mercedes said: “Kimi is feeling under the weather today as he recovers from a viral illness. As a precaution, the FIA have excused him from his mandatory media duties to give him the chance to rest ahead of the weekend. We expect him to be back tomorrow. Thanks for understanding.”
Absences at Cadillac
He’s not the only driver affected, as Bottas will also miss Thursday due to illness.
Cadillac released a statement on his absence, saying: “Cadillac Formula 1 Team can confirm that Valtteri Bottas will unfortunately be unable to attend today’s media day in Mexico City as he is unwell. The team has decided to give him a day of rest to support his recovery.
“This is a precautionary measure and does not currently affect his participation in the remainder of the race weekend. We will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates if necessary. We apologise for any inconvenience caused and thank you for your understanding.”
Luckily, both drivers are expected to return to the track in time for the on-track action.
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