© Jiri Krenek for Mercedes-Benz Grand Prix Ltd.
Mercedes’ newest driver Andrea Kimi Antonelli says he doesn’t “feel like the replacement of Lewis”, he just feels “like the next Mercedes driver”.
Ahead of the 2025 season, Mercedes’ newest driver Andrea Kimi Antonelli opened up on how he deals with the pressure of being a Mercedes driver, especially as the one who joined right after Lewis Hamilton left for Ferrari.
“First of all, we’ll see in the first race how I feel, also speed-wise and how I adapt as well, but of course, it is a big seat,” the Italian said.
“But I don’t feel like the replacement of Lewis, I just feel like the next Mercedes driver, but it is a big responsibility because I am racing for Mercedes.
“It is a great opportunity and I’ll try to make the best out of it.”
As for his expectations, the 18-year-old remains realistic.
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“My mindset is going to be the one of going [to the first race in Australia] and try to win.
“But at the same time, you have to be realistic, I’m racing against the other 19 best drivers in the world, so it is not going to be easy.
“But, I am just focused on the work I have to do, trying to do the best job possible, learn as much as possible and see where we end up.
“I’m just focusing on the day-by-day, on the preparation I have to do with the team, and with Bono [Hamilton’s former race engineer Peter Bonnington, who is now working with Kimi].
“It is going well and I’m really looking forward to the first race,” Antonelli concluded.
