Antonelli squashes common Hamilton-Mercedes F1 belief

Kimi Antonelli insists he wants to forge his own path with Mercedes, not merely be Lewis Hamilton's "replacement" at the Brackley-based squad.

It is a label the young Italian rejects, instead maintaining he is simply the team's "next driver" after the seven-time F1 champion joined Ferrari ahead of the 2025 season.

Despite only one season in F2 and having skipped FIA F3 altogether, Antonelli is one of the most highly-anticipated rookies in contemporary F1 history.

Widely considered an grand prix winner and drivers' champion in waiting, he does not want just emulate the achievements of others.

"I don't find it right to say that I'm his [Hamilton's] replacement," the 18-year-old told media Including RacingNews365.

"He has done so much in the sport, and I just feel like the next Mercedes driver - and I really want to make my own story [in F1]."

Standing up to the 'big responsibility in front of him

One of six drivers starting out on their first full season in F1, Antonelli finds himself - along with Liam Lawson at Red Bull - in a significantly more competitive car than his fellow rookies.

If Mercedes can continue to show race-winning form, as it did in 2024, he will eventually be expected to contribute podium finishes, and maybe more, as team-mate George Russell will be.

However, despite the size of the task ahead, Antonelli is well aware of the "great opportunity" that comes with the challenge.

"Racing for Mercedes is definitely a big responsibility, because it's obviously a top team," he added. "But, at the same time, it's a great opportunity.

"It's a privilege to be where I am today, and I'll just try to make the best out of this opportunity."