Andrea Kimi Antonelli considers himself ‘lucky’ experiencing Lewis Hamilton’ sensational win in Silverstone

Andrea Kimi Antonelli is one of the favorites to takeover from Lewis Hamilton at Mercedes from 2025 onwards.

Andrea Kimi Antonelli considers himself ‘lucky’ experiencing Lewis Hamilton’ sensational win in Silverstone

Andrea Kimi Antonelli and Lewis Hamilton (via IMAGO)

F2 Prema Racing driver Andrea Kimi Antonelli is having the time of his life with Mercedes this year. He is tipped to be repping the black gear from 2025 onwards and during the ongoing campaign, he is taking in everything that’s gone on at the Brackley-based outfit.

Lewis Hamilton won a race in F1 after 945 days at the British Grand Prix. The Mercedes garage was ecstatic with the seven-time world champion’s triumph and the whole moment, was a memorable one for Andrea Kimi Antonelli.

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The 17-year-old really looks up to Hamilton as one of his inspirations in F1.

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It was a beautiful moment. Toto said to me: 'Kimi, let's go in the photo.' I had already experienced the incredible atmosphere in the pit before. I had never seen anything like it before. Everyone was singing. The joy was in their eyes. I consider myself lucky that I was able to experience such a moment together with the whole team.
Andrea Kimi Antonelli via Motorsport-total

Looking at the reaction of Antonelli, it is quite clear that Hamilton’s Silverstone triumph was a bit of a surreal moment for him. Moreover, if the Italian certainly does get the Brit’s seat for 2025, he will be extremely motivated to perform to the best of his ability to try and fill the big shoes of the latter.

Andrea Kimi Antonelli has ‘huge respect’ for George Russell

While Antonelli has talked about his experience with Mercedes at the British GP, he has also shed light on his relationship with George Russell. Antonelli has not spent much time with the latter but considers him an exceptional driver.

George Russell
George Russell (Via: Imago)
Yes, I have met him, but I haven't had the opportunity to spend much time with him. Formula 1 drivers are very busy and don't have much time, but I have a lot of respect for George.
Andrea Kimi Antonelli via the same interview

George Russell will become the de-facto team leader at Mercedes from the 2025 F1 season onwards. He’s been driving for the team since 2022 and is seen by many as one of the best on the current grid. From Antonelli’s perspective, Russell will be a strong benchmark for him if he manages to secure the coveted Mercedes seat. As per rumors, the Italian’s Mercedes announcement is not too far away.

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