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Kimi Antonelli handed the second Mercedes FP1 outing, replacing Lewis Hamilton | F1

L. Dreeye October 23, 2024

Toto Wolff has confirmed that Andrea Kimi Antonelli will drive for Mercedes in first Formula 1 practice at the Mexico City Grand Prix this weekend.

Antonelli will drive Lewis Hamilton’s Mercedes for the first 60 minutes of practice at the Hermanos Rodriguez circuit on Friday.

Under Formula One rules, all 10 teams are allowed to give rookie drivers two outings during the 2024 campaign.

Antonelli replaced George Russell in first practice at Monza but crashed badly early on.

The 18-year-old Italian will have another opportunity to drive the W15 as he prepares to make his Formula 1 debut next year.

Antonelli was chosen as Hamilton’s successor, with the seven-time world champion joining Ferrari alongside Charles Leclerc.

Ahead of the weekend, Wolf said: “Because of its high altitude, Mexico presents a unique challenge. The power unit has to work harder, and to counteract the thin air we drive with maximum downforce.

“This will provide another opportunity to evaluate our recent upgrade package. Kimi will also be in the car for his second FP1 session and we look forward to seeing him continue his development on the right track.”

Mercedes “Challenge” in Mexico

Mercedes had a difficult weekend at the US Grand Prix last time out.

Hamilton crashed out of the race within the first two laps, while Russell finished sixth after starting from the pit lane.

The W15, in the hands of both drivers, proved difficult to drive as their new upgrade package could potentially affect the car’s handling.

“After a difficult weekend in Austin, we have the opportunity to bounce back immediately in Mexico,” Wolf added. “Our performance in Texas showed that the car has inherent performance. Our job is to consistently extract this information.

“This is not the result of any specific task, but the result of the interaction of the car with both aerodynamic and mechanical factors. We still have five races to work on before the end of the season. It is important that we do this not only for our immediate results, but also to ensure we are well prepared for 2025.”

Ecurie-esperluette

Ecurie-esperluette

Kimi Antonelli handed the second Mercedes FP1 outing, replacing Lewis Hamilton | F1

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Kimi Antonelli handed the second Mercedes FP1 outing, replacing Lewis Hamilton | F1

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