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 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.

Lewis Hamilton trailed new Ferrari team-mate Charles Leclerc by a massive 1.7 seconds in a pre-season test in Barcelona this week.

Lewis Hamilton fans have sent a clear message to Ferrari Formula 1 team over their preference on the team's 2025 driver duo ahead of the upcoming season opener. The new season is set to get underway at the Australian Grand Prix for Hamilton's first weekend racing in red from March 14 to 16, 2025.