Mercedes Replaces Hamilton with...for Mexican GP FP1 After Pu...

Mercedes Replaces Hamilton with…for Mexican GP FP1 After Pu…read more

Mercedes is set for a notable change at the upcoming Mexican Grand Prix, with rising star Andrea Kimi Antonelli taking over Lewis Hamilton’s car for the first practice session (FP1). This decision follows a challenging weekend for Hamilton at the United States Grand Prix in Austin, where a series of setbacks marked his performance. In Austin, Hamilton’s troubles began with a spin in FP1 and continued through the sprint race, where he managed only a sixth-place finish. Qualifying proved even more disappointing, as he was eliminated in Q1, leading him to start 19th on the grid. Despite a promising start that saw him climb to 12th, his efforts ended abruptly due to a third-lap crash.

George Russell, Hamilton’s teammate, had a stronger weekend, finishing sixth. This contrast left Mercedes Team Principal Toto Wolff baffled by Hamilton’s sudden dip in form. Wolff described the Mercedes W15’s performance as “puzzling,” highlighting the need for a deeper analysis of the car’s behavior. The decision to replace Hamilton with Antonelli for FP1 in Mexico is part of a data-gathering effort to evaluate the latest upgrades and resolve the team’s ongoing challenges.

For Antonelli, this opportunity marks another significant milestone in his blossoming career. The young Italian driver, who currently competes in the FIA Formula 1 Championship, has already shown impressive potential. Earlier this season, he gained attention with a solid start at Monza, despite an early session-ending spin. His standout performances include victories at Silverstone and Hungary, securing him sixth place in the championship standings—a commendable position for a rookie.

Mercedes’ decision to give Antonelli seat time is not just about collecting data. It’s also part of his gradual preparation for a full-time Formula 1 role. Antonelli is expected to join the grid in 2025, taking Hamilton’s spot when the seven-time world champion moves to Ferrari at the end of this season.

This move underscores Mercedes’ commitment to nurturing young talent while seeking clarity on the W15’s performance inconsistencies. Antonelli’s upcoming session at the Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez will be watched closely, both as an evaluation of his readiness for a permanent F1 seat and as a crucial test for Mercedes’ technical developments. As the season nears its end, Antonelli’s performance will not only influence the team’s immediate strategy but also offer insight into Mercedes’ vision for a post-Hamilton era.