Antonelli set for Mercedes practice debut at Monza

Mercedes, one of the biggest names in Formula One, has announced that Andrea Kimi Antonelli will make his practice debut at his home grand prix in Monza. The 18-year-old Italian, who recently celebrated his birthday, is slated to drive during the first practice session (FP1) on Friday, marking a significant milestone in his budding career.

Team boss Toto Wolff shared the news during Sunday’s Dutch Grand Prix at Zandvoort, highlighting the emotional weight of the occasion. "We're going to do FP1 with Kimi in Monza, which is going to be a really emotional moment because we've followed him since he was 11 and a baby go-kart driver with a Mercedes kit and proud to be in the garage," Wolff stated.

Antonelli's debut comes amid speculation about his future role within the team, particularly as seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton prepares to join Ferrari next season. Wolff’s comments have intensified the buzz: "Seeing him drive out on Friday in FP1 in Monza, in front of the tifosi, an Italian kid in a competitive car -- I think that will be something that everyone in Italy can be very proud of and I will take it from there."

Currently competing in Formula Two, Antonelli has also been developing his skills by testing older F1 cars privately with Mercedes. Technical director James Allison had previously noted the young driver's exceptional pace and consistency, describing it as "metronomic."

Media comparisons to Red Bull's Max Verstappen, who debuted in F1 at 17 and has since become a triple world champion, are not unfounded. Mercedes believes Antonelli has the potential to be another generational talent.

However, Wolff has ruled out any possibility of Antonelli racing this season, despite rumors linking him with a seat at Mercedes-powered Williams. Williams has already named Logan Sargeant’s replacement for 2025, which might lead to an early exit for the American, especially after his crash on Saturday and a point-less season thus far.

"Between [Williams boss] James Vowles and myself, we have super transparent discussions and relationships," Wolff explained. "And James was part of developing Kimi and finding Kimi. I think what's best for him [Antonelli] is to continue the program as we have designed it...and see how that goes, rather than disrupting our plan and giving him the opportunity in Williams. That's the decision that we have taken."

Wolff also highlighted the prospects of Mercedes reserve driver Mick Schumacher, who is seeking a return to F1 after being dropped by Haas. "I very much hope that Mick gets the chance, because we haven't seen the real Mick," Wolff said. "And if the opportunity would be in a Williams, it's something that we would be cheering for."

As Antonelli steps into a Mercedes for the first practice session at Monza, eyes from across the motorsport world will be fixated on the young Italian, marking what could be the beginning of a stellar career in Formula One.

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