Mercedes to test Andrea Kimi Antonelli in an F1 car in Barcelona

Mercedes continues to prepare Andrea Kimi Antonelli as best they can for a possible F1 debut in '25. The German racing stable has confirmed that the Italian will take part in a private test with an older Mercedes F1 car in Barcelona next week. Mick Schumacher will also be in action.

Last month, the three drivers, including that time George Russell, each at different times and under different conditions, already completed their miles on the Silverstone circuit. For Antonelli, it was a great opportunity to get further acquainted with an F1 car; for Mercedes, a great opportunity to see how ready the Italian is for an entry into the premier class of motorsport. The learning process will continue in the near future, first of all in Spain.

That test driver Mick Schumacher will be back in action in Barcelona cannot be separated from the team's current sporting problems. While it is true that testing with the '24 car or trying new parts is not allowed, important data can be collected. The Mercedes team let GPblog known that no conclusions should be drawn from lap times, as each driver has his own programme.

Lewis Hamilton will not be present at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya. The Briton is moving to Ferrari after this season and is now largely cut off from information about developments and upgrades.