Andrea Kimi Antonelli Embraces Pressure Amid Mercedes F1 Rumours: ‘Trying to Enjoy the Moment

Andrea Kimi Antonelli is attempting to embrace the pressure from rumors linking him to Mercedes F1. He mentioned, "Lately, there's been some pressure, but I've made an effort to take it in stride."

Mercedes Formula 1 rising star Andrea Kimi Antonelli mentioned that he has "attempted to embrace" the expectations surrounding the speculation that he might succeed Lewis Hamilton in 2025.

The 17-year-old from Italy is considered one of the most promising talents in F1. Antonelli, who won the Formula Regional European Championship last year, will move directly to Formula 2 with Prema in 2024.

Despite the challenging leap, Antonelli has achieved two race victories and is currently in seventh place in the standings, 53 points ahead of his team-mate Oliver Bearman, who is heading to F1.

After Hamilton revealed his contract with Ferrari for the 2025 season, speculation has grown that Antonelli might be elevated to Mercedes to take over from the seven-time champion.

In an interview with motorsport.com, Antonelli addressed the rumors, stating, "I believe there's always some level of concern. The thought of not being able to deliver is something that scares everyone."

"I view it as an excellent chance to gain knowledge, develop, and savor the experience."

"I'm not worried about being evaluated; I understand that Mercedes has a strong view of my abilities. Although the F2 season didn't start ideally, I haven't had any negative feelings about it."

"I am very composed, and if a chance came my way, I would eagerly seize it and strive to maximize its potential."

Lately, the speculation about what will happen next year has put some stress on me, but I've made an effort to stay positive. I'm making the most of the chances I'm given and having fun with them.

Mercedes has advanced Antonelli's progress this year by having the Italian driver participate in several private test sessions using one of the team's two-year-old Formula 1 cars.

He described his initial test in Austria in April as an "amazing experience" and mentioned that "driving an F1 car boosts your confidence significantly".

Antonelli's unusual move from FRECA to F2 sparked a variety of opinions among observers. Some felt it was too significant a leap, while others anticipated he would be competitive right away.

However, the young driver explained, "When they told me about this plan, I initially felt it would be a significant leap, as the usual progression is to go to F3 first. Nonetheless, I found the challenge instantly attractive."

"I never intended to dominate in F2; I knew that moving up from Formula Regional would be tough and that I had a lot to learn, which I am still in the process of doing."

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