F1 News

Antonelli reacts to debut for Mercedes at Italian Grand Prix

Antonelli responds after F1 debut is announced

26 August at 18:15
  • Jeroen Immink

Andrea Kimi Antonelli has reacted for the first time after it was announced that he will make his debut at the Italian Grand Prix. There, the Italian will take a seat in Mercedes' W15 during the first free practice session. Antonelli is looking forward to it and is happy to make his debut in front of his home fans.

Antonelli takes will replace George Russell

"Taking part in my first FP1 is going to be really special. I'm really excited to drive the W15 and share the track with so many amazing drivers. I can't wait for it," Antonelli said. The 18-year-old has previously been allowed to test for Mercedes at Imola and Silverstone, but will now drive for the first time during an official session in Formula 1.

Antonelli will make his F1 practice session in front of his own crowd. "Making my F1 session debut in front of my home crowd too is incredible. I'm looking forward to learning a lot but also helping contribute to the team's weekend," the Italian said.

Currently, Antonelli is seventh in the F2 standings. Alongside Oliver Bearman and Jack Doohan - who have already been confirmed at Haas and Alpine - it looks like Antonelli will also make the move from Formula 2 to Formula 1.

This article has been written in collaboration with Matt Gretton

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