Rumors
![Antonelli makes possible F1 debut at Mona during free practice](https://webp.gp.cdn.pxr.nl/news/2024/08/21/f36fe573045cbfd6ea494c62959e266acfd11aad.jpg?width=1800)
'Antonelli makes F1 debut for Mercedes during free practice in Monza'
- Tygo Bekkema
Kimi Antonelli is known as a major talent in the Formula 1 world. The 17-year-old Italian is a Mercedes junior and his name is regularly heard around as a possible replacement for Lewis Hamilton at the Silver Arrows. According to the Motorsport.com's Italian website, the youngster is set to make his F1 debut at the Italian Grand Prix in Monza.
The Italian medium reports that Antonelli will reportedly take part in the first free practice session at what would be his home Grand Prix on behalf of the Mercedes team. Incidentally, the German racing team themselves have not yet confirmed this. Every team is required by the regulations to put a young driver in the car during two free practice sessions throughout the year.
Antonelli is currently seventh in the Formula 2 championship. Driving on behalf of the Prema team, he recently impressed by winning the feature race in Hungary and he impressively won a wet sprint race at the Silverstone circuit.
Earlier today, Mercedes confirmed to GPblog that Max Verstappen will not be joining the team in the 2025 season. However, GPblog have also learned that does not make the Italian the person who will become George Russell's teammate next season.
This article was written in collaboration with Kada Sarkozi
Want more Formula 1? Then follow GPblog on our various social media channels!