The next four months will see Andrea Kimi Antonelli alternating between the Formula 2 championship race calendar and the test program with the Mercedes W13. The rumors that Antonelli might make his Formula 1 debut in the Emilia-Romagna Grand Prix were denied by Mercedes themselves.
However, there is a sort of ‘mystery’ surrounding the rumors according to which the FIA received a request for an exemption to allow Antonelli to obtain the F1 super license before turning eighteen, one of the requirements required by the International Federation.
From what we learned in Miami, a request to the FIA relating to Antonelli has actually been presented, but it is not clear whether it is the authorization to take to the track in the FP1 sessions or a race licence, and above all it is not known which team it is from the application has been received.
“We have received this request and we are examining it – confirmed an FIA spokesperson – in these cases there is a process to follow and the process involves various people and commissions called to evaluate, and possibly accept, the request. In fact this is a change to the rules in force.”
Mercedes has made it clear that it is not involved, and suspicions have shifted to Williams, which is busy evaluating potential alternatives to Logan Sargeant after a disappointing start to the season. When asked about it, team principal James Vowles sidestepped the question.
Andrea Kimi Antonelli, Mercedes W13
Photo by: Davide Cavazza
“Kimi is one of our desires, but I have no information regarding the Mercedes tests – he commented referring to the test program that Antonelli is carrying out – we are like everyone else working to find the best opportunities in view of next season, and we also have our young pilot program.”
“Regarding Kimi, I can’t really judge his current level of preparation, but if he were to get into the car this season it would be a meritocratic choice. Logan has to earn his seat and at the moment he has some difficult objectives because he has to get very close to Alex. But at the moment we have nothing on the radar to replace it.”
On August 25th Antonelli will turn 18, and even before obtaining his driving license he will obtain the Super License to be able to take part in a Formula 1 Grand Prix. The day Antonelli becomes of age the race will take place in Zandvoort, seven days later it will be the time of the Italian Grand Prix.
At the end of the summer, with the market scenario for the top teams well defined, Antonelli’s future will also be clear, and if the Formula 1 plans are confirmed, Kimi’s debut in the World Championship could take shape in his home race if Williams confirmed still available.
The English team has made it clear that Antonelli’s arrival in the team would be very welcome, provided, however, that they can keep him in the team for at least a full season. A desire that may not coincide with Mercedes’ plans, but a glimmer of hope could still remain open if Sargeant does not confirm the improvements that the team is asking of him to improve its position in the constructors’ championship.
Andrea Kimi Antonelli, Mercedes W13
Photo by: Davide Cavazza
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