Formula 1 - Kimi Antonelli wants to write his own F1 history: I'm not a Hamilton replacement!

Lewis Hamilton's move to Ferrari was announced with a bang in February 2024. The search for his replacement turned out to be all the more lengthy. Ultimately, Mercedes junior Kimi Antonelli was entrusted with the big task of replacing the record world champion. Antonelli himself, however, does not see himself as a Hamilton replacement.

Kimi Antonelli will make his Formula 1 debut in Australia at the age of 18. That's a lot of pressure on his very young shoulders. His predecessor Lewis Hamilton won six drivers' world championships with the team and at least two races last year.

"I don't think it's right to say that I'm his replacement. Because he has done so much. I just think it's great to be a Mercedes driver. I want to write my own story," said Antonelli himself.

For the young Italian, one thing is most important: to make it into the team. "Racing for Mercedes is a huge responsibility. It's a privilege to be where I am now. I'll just try to make the best of my opportunities."

But the signing of Antonelli is not only a big step for Mercedes, but also for his home country Italy. The last Italian driver in the premier class was Antonio Giovinazzi, who drove for Alfa Romeo Sauber until 2021.

But Giovinazzi never fought for many points or podiums. The Sauber was not capable of that. Antonelli's Mercedes is more likely to be able to do that. Antonelli's performance in the junior series gives us a lot of hope.

"The Tifosi have a strong passion for Ferrari. I think they are also happy about a good Italian Ferrari. There is a lot of hype," said Antonelli.

The last Italian race winner is Giancharlo Fisichella. He triumphed in Malaysia in 2006 with a Renault. Antonelli could end the Italian drought of victory after almost 19 years. But that could lead to even more pressure for the 18-year-old, who already has many eyes on him.

"I think it's great. There is such positive energy and I'm really looking forward to racing in my two home races. Because a lot of people are looking forward to it," said Antonelli, who doesn't want to hear about pressure.