Antonelli concedes to feeling 'big pressure' during F1 links

Andrea Kimi Antonelli has admitted to feeling pressure from Mercedes this year as he continues to be linked to a full-time Formula 1 drive.

Antonelli, who has been part of Mercedes' junior programme for several years, was vaulted into Formula 2 this year after winning the Formula Regional European Championship last season.

Last weekend at Silverstone, Antonelli claimed his first victory in F2, prevailing in wet conditions during the sprint race.

The 17-year-old Italian has been touted as a potential replacement for Lewis Hamilton in 2025 when the seven-time world champion joins Ferrari.

Speaking after his first F2 victory, Antonelli admitted he has felt under significant pressure this year.

“Not always do I cope really well with pressure,” Antonelli said. “Obviously, this season has been a big amount of pressure, to be honest.

“But I can say that I coped with it [during the Silverstone sprint race] pretty well. 

“There are still some improvements because sometimes I still make some mistakes.”

Antonelli sees first win as 'weight off my shoulders'

Antonelli has already tested Mercedes F1 machinery as the Brackley-based squad prepares him for a future drive in the series.

Mercedes is yet to make a decision over who will partner George Russell next year, but Antonelli is believed to be the front-runner.

With a heavy spotlight placed upon him this year, Antonelli has admitted his maiden F2 win was a significant moment for his development.

“In qualifying [at Silverstone], I did a mistake on my lap and lost quite a bit of time. 

“So definitely, sometimes I still don’t perform as I could. But I’m trying every time to cope as best as I can with the pressure, and I think today was really the showcase.

“It was a big relief for me because it really takes a lot of weight from my shoulders.”