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Kimi Antonelli Set for Mercedes FP1 Drive at Monza, But No Williams Move in Sight
Andrea Kimi Antonelli is set to take the wheel for Mercedes during the first practice session (FP1) at the Italian Grand Prix this Friday. However, he will not be joining Williams as a regular driver in 2024.
Andrea Kimi Antonelli won't be starting his Formula 1 career with Williams during the season, as decided by Toto Wolff. However, Wolff has confirmed that Antonelli will be behind the wheel for Mercedes during the first practice session at the Italian Grand Prix on Friday.
Antonelli is anticipated to join Mercedes as a full-time Formula 1 driver in 2025, succeeding Lewis Hamilton.
Spending a brief period at Antonelli might provide him with valuable experience before his tenure at Mercedes begins.
Nonetheless, Wolff firmly dismissed the idea, adhering to their initial strategy of having Antonelli participate in FIA Formula 2 in conjunction with a comprehensive testing schedule with the team.
In a conversation with journalists from Crash.net and others at Zandvoort on Sunday, Wolff revealed his plans to take the wheel for Mercedes during the first practice session at Monza.
"Wolff announced plans for Kimi to participate in an FP1 session at Monza, describing it as a poignant occasion. “He’s been on our radar since he was 11, a young go-kart racer donned in Mercedes gear, always eager to be in the garage,” Wolff shared.
"Watching him hit the track for the first time during Friday's FP1 at Monza, especially with an Italian racer in a competitive vehicle in front of the passionate tifosi, is a moment that will certainly fill everyone in Italy with immense pride. From that point on, we'll just see how things unfold."
From the beginning of the season, there's been ongoing speculation about Antonelli's anticipated first appearance with Williams in 2024.
Logan Sargeant's lackluster performance has sparked rumors about a possible mid-season replacement, especially following his significant crash during the third free practice session.
Wolff has verified that Antonelli won't be joining Williams for his first Formula 1 race this season, opening up possibilities for Mick Schumacher or Liam Lawson to step in if James Vowles opts to take Sargeant's place.
"He added that there exists a highly transparent relationship and dialogue between James Vowles and himself.
"James played a key role in both identifying and developing Kimi's talents. We believe it's in his best interest to stick with the established plan, which includes the TPC [Testing of Previous Car] and participating in F2 races, rather than altering our strategy to allow him a chance to race with Williams. This is the conclusion we've reached."
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