After Monza, redemption for Antonelli: he will drive the Mercedes W15 in place of Lewis Hamilton during the FP1 in Mexico.
In addition to the opportunity for teams to start testing Pirelli tires for 2025 during the second practice session at the Mexican Grand Prix, another highlight of the weekend will be the participation of Andrea Kimi Antonelli in FP1.
This time, it will be Lewis Hamilton who stays on the sidelines, while the driver who will inherit his seat next season will have the opportunity to test the car during the first practice session in Mexico. It’s not Antonelli’s first time behind the wheel of a Formula 1 car during an official weekend; in fact, he had the opportunity to test the W15 during his home Grand Prix last September at the Monza circuit.
Unfortunately, the 18-year-old Italian’s plans didn’t go as expected, and after setting an excellent first lap with the fastest time in the second sector, misfortune struck: the former Prema driver lost the rear of Russell’s car and crashed into the wall at the Parabolica.
“I’m looking forward to driving in FP1 and playing my part in helping the team make a good start on track this weekend It is a new circuit for me and one I have been working hard to prepare for. The altitude makes it unique and it’s a challenge I’m excited to experience. I want to thank the team for giving me this opportunity to contribute.” said the Italian, who will challenge George Russell starting next year, always thanking the Brackley team. The Mercedes team principal was also enthusiastic, stating that he can’t wait to see Kimi “continue his development on track in Mexico“.
Kimi Antonelli’s participation in the first practice session will not only give the driver a chance to prove himself and redeem after the incident at the Temple of Speed, but it will also provide spectators, as well as the Silver Arrows team, with a small taste of what to expect from next season, allowing them to compare the Italian with the English driver.
Photo: Formula 1, Mercedes AMG-Petronas F1 Team.
