While a lesser driver might be crumbling under the pressure, Antonelli has argued that he isn’t “replacing” Hamilton so much as he is finding his footing with his first F1 t

Andrea Kimi Antonelli was more nervous than he had been for some time. A racing driver’s career can often hinge on sliding doors moments such as these. The 18-year-old wasn’t trying to secure a Formula One drive. He completed that mission months ago when he signed with Mercedes to replace Lewis Hamilton.

The Briton took part in a Pirelli tyre test for 2026 alongside Charles Leclerc, Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri

The Italian driver in the form of Kimi Antonelli has admitted that there is a realization that he is replacing Lewis Hamilton at Mercedes which is not only a privilege but a responsibility too.