Lewis Hamilton Welcomes Kimi Antonelli’s FP1 Appearance at Mexican Grand Prix
Lewis Hamilton Welcomes Kimi Antonelli’s FP1 Appearance at Mexican Grand Prix
Lewis Hamilton has expressed no reservations about allowing Kimi Antonelli to drive his Mercedes car during FP1 at the Mexican Grand Prix this weekend. The Italian teenager is gaining more Formula 1 experience as part of Mercedes’ strategy to meet the FIA’s rookie driver requirements. Antonelli made his debut FP1 appearance earlier this season at Monza, driving George Russell’s car, where he had a mixed session that ended in a crash. However, Hamilton remains optimistic about the youngster’s second outing in Mexico.
Antonelli’s debut in Monza started off with promise, as he set the fastest time on his first lap, surprising many in the motorsport community. Unfortunately, his session ended early after a high-speed crash at Parabolica. Despite this setback, Hamilton believes the 17-year-old driver has grown from the experience and will perform better this time.
When asked about the risks of lending his car to the rookie, Hamilton said, “I don’t personally have any concerns. Going into Monza, we knew it was part of the learning process, and I think Kimi has taken valuable lessons from that weekend.” Hamilton added that he has already spent time with Antonelli during briefings to help prepare him. “He’s working with Bono next year and tomorrow, so I’m here to support him however I can,” Hamilton explained. “I told him he doesn’t need to try and set the world alight right away. What’s important is building into it and enjoying the process.”
Hamilton also gave Antonelli practical advice about the conditions he may encounter on track in Mexico. “The track can be really dirty at the beginning, so I told him not to worry too much. Whatever challenges we face, we’ll handle them together, and I don’t think he’ll have any trouble,” the seven-time world champion assured.
Aside from Antonelli, several other young drivers will participate in FP1 on Friday. Robert Shwartzman will complete Sauber’s rookie practice obligations, and Felipe Drugovich will drive Aston Martin’s AMR24 for the first time in an official session, having contributed to the car’s development in a reserve role.
One of the most highly anticipated drivers on the grid is Mexican IndyCar star Pato O’Ward, who will take over Lando Norris’s McLaren for FP1. O’Ward, a seven-time IndyCar race winner, also came close to winning the Indianapolis 500 earlier this year. His appearance in front of the home crowd is expected to create excitement, giving fans another national hero to support alongside Sergio Perez.
Norris spoke about O’Ward’s role and the importance of the opportunity for the Mexican driver. “It’s not just about driving the car; he plays a bigger role in helping us as a team,” Norris said. “This is a great experience for him, and performing in front of his home crowd makes it even more special.”
Antonelli’s inclusion in FP1 is part of a larger strategy by Mercedes, as the young driver is already confirmed to partner Russell in the 2025 season. With Hamilton offering his full support, Mercedes seems confident in Antonelli’s development and future within the team.
Hamilton’s positive attitude toward Antonelli reflects his belief in nurturing young talent, ensuring that the Italian can make the most of his early opportunities without unnecessary pressure. The FP1 session at the Mexican Grand Prix will offer another chance for Antonelli to demonstrate his potential on the F1 stage.
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