Kimi Antonelli declares he doesn’t see himself as Lewis Hamilton replacement for Mercedes
Kimi Antonelli reckons that he doesn't feel like simply being the Lewis Hamilton replacement for Mercedes ahead of 2025 debut.
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Kimi Antonelli and Lewis Hamilton (images via IMAGO)
Mercedes signed 18-year-old Kimi Antonelli to fill in for Ferrari-bound Lewis Hamilton for 2025. The Italian driver has impressed the paddock during his junior career. However, Antonelli is not taking the pressure of being the replacement of the seven-time world champion.
The Mercedes prodigy made it clear that he’ll wait for the first race of the season to see how he fares against the rest of the grid. Kimi Antonelli recognized that he will need to adapt quickly as he will racing for one of the top teams in the sport.
First of all, we’ll see in the first race how I feel, also speed-wise and how I adapt as well, but of course, it is a big seat.
Kimi Antonelli said, as reported by RacingNews365
Though, Antonelli insisted that he wasn’t seeing himself as a replacement for Lewis Hamilton. Rather, the 18-year-old considered himself as a Mercedes driver, which remains a big responsibility on his shoulders. The Silver Arrows have been the most successful team in the sport in the past decade.
But I don’t feel like the replacement of Lewis, I just feel like the next Mercedes driver, but it is a big responsibility because I am racing for Mercedes, it is a great opportunity and I’ll try to make the best out of it.
Kimi Antonelli explained
Kimi Antonelli eyes race win on debut
The Italian driver declared that he will aim to potentially fight for win at the season-opener in Melbourne. However, Kimi Antonelli acknowledged that he needs to remain realistic and get the best result possible. Mercedes boss Toto Wolff has already warned shareholders from keeping too high expectations on the 18-year-old for this season.
My mindset is going to be the one of going [to Australia] and try to win, but at the same time, you have to be realistic.
Kimi Antonelli noted
Certainly, Kimi Antonelli is one of the most exciting young talents on the 2025 grid. The Italian driver could be the ideal driver for Mercedes’ long-term future. Although, Antonelli will first have to prove himself capable of withstanding the pressure in the upcoming season. Fans can expect some exciting performances from the 18-year-old in the coming months.
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Armaan Agarwal
(2377 Articles Published)