Mercedes to debut Antonelli in FP1 at Italian Grand Prix
What's the story
Formula 1 team Mercedes are preparing to give Andrea Kimi Antonelli his first FP1 appearance at the upcoming Italian Grand Prix.
This move is part of the team's strategy to groom Antonelli for a probable promotion to its Formula 1 roster in 2025.
The young Italian racer, who turns 18 this week, has conducted private tests in W13 and W14 F1 cars throughout the year.
Here we present the key details.
Debut details
Antonelli's public debut and prospects
As reported by Motorsport.com, Antonelli's public F1 debut is scheduled for August 30 at Monza. This will be during one of Mercedes's compulsory FP1 sessions for rookie drivers.
During the event, the team also plans to finalize its decision to promote the young driver to its 2025 driver line-up alongside George Russell during this event.
Car takeover
Antonelli to take over Hamilton's W15 F1 car
Antonelli, currently a Prema Formula 2 driver, is expected to drive Lewis Hamilton's W15 Formula 1 car for the session.
This move will give him the chance to collaborate and build rapport with Peter Bonnington, who recently got to know Antonelli during a Pirelli tire test following the Belgian GP.
Bonnington was recently promoted to Mercedes's head of race engineering and will continue his duties in 2025.
Mercedes
How has Mercedes fared so far in the 2024 Season?
Mercedes are currently fourth in the Constructors Standings with 266 points right behind arch rivals Scuderia Ferrari with 345 points.
The eight-time Formula 1 champions were set to achieve their 60th 1-2 finish in Formula 1, before George Russell's disqualification at the Belgian GP.
According to F1.com, Mercedes has five consceutive podium finishes including two poles and two wins in the last four race weekends.
Career progression
Antonelli's journey and future plans with Mercedes
Antonelli has been serving as a simulator driver for Mercedes while also participating in private testing.
The Italian GP FP1 appearance will mark his first public F1 track outing for the team.
However, Mercedes has not yet revealed its FP1 rookie driver plans for this year.
After Monza, only two events remain - Mexico and Abu Dhabi - that do not feature street tracks or follow a sprint race format.