Kimi Antonelli set to replace Lewis Hamilton for FP1 session in Italian Grand Prix 2024

Mercedes is preparing to give young Formula 2 sensation Andrea Kimi Antonelli his first taste of Formula 1 action during the Italian Grand Prix. The 18-year-old Italian driver is set to participate in the first Free Practice (FP1) session at Monza, where he will drive the Mercedes W15.

Kimi will temporarily take the place of the seven-time world champion, Lewis Hamilton. This move is seen as a significant step in Antonelli's burgeoning career and a critical moment for Mercedes as they look toward the future of their F1 lineup.

Kimi Antonelli’s debut in a Formula 1 weekend marks a pivotal moment for both the driver and the team. Mercedes, facing the daunting task of replacing the outgoing Hamilton at the end of the season, has been evaluating various options to fill the void left by their legendary driver. While the Brackley-based team initially explored top-tier options such as Max Verstappen and Carlos Sainz, it appears that the focus has now shifted to nurturing talent from within their ranks.

Who is Kimi Antonelli?

Kimi Antonelli is a product of Mercedes’ junior program. He has impressed the team with his performances in Formula 2 and during recent Formula 1 test sessions. His rapid progress and potential have not gone unnoticed by team principal Toto Wolff, who has expressed confidence in Antonelli’s abilities.

This FP1 session at Monza offers Antonelli a golden opportunity to showcase his skills on one of the most iconic circuits in the F1 calendar. For the young Italian, driving in front of his home crowd in Monza will undoubtedly add to the excitement and pressure of the occasion. His performance during this session could play a crucial role in determining whether he becomes a more permanent fixture in Mercedes' plans.

As Mercedes grapples with the impending departure of Hamilton, the introduction of Antonelli into the F1 fold signals a potential shift in the team’s strategy. With Verstappen seemingly committed to Red Bull for the foreseeable future, Antonelli has emerged as a viable long-term option.