Antonelli to drive in second FP1 session in Mexico as he takes over Hamilton's W15

Mercedes junior, and next year's full-time replacement for Lewis Hamilton, Kimi Antonelli will get back behind the wheel of a Formula 1 car as he takes part in his second FP1 session of the season in Mexico.

The 18-year-old Italian will take over Hamilton's W15 in Mexico City, having also driven on Friday at Monza in September.

READ MORE: Wolff insists spin ‘100%’ not Hamilton’s fault as he questions ‘odd’ Russell penalty

However, the teenager's session in Italy came to an early end as a high-speed crash saw him put his borrowed car into the Monza wall just minutes into his debut.

That crash had no bearing on Mercedes' decision to promote the youngster, with Antonelli confirmed as Hamilton's replacement at the Silver Arrows the very next day, and the youngster will get another opportunity to show what he is capable of around the Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez this weekend.

“I’m looking forward to driving in FP1 and playing my part in helping the team make a good start on track this weekend," said Antonelli on his Mexico outing.

“It is a new circuit for me and one I have been working hard to prepare for. The altitude makes it unique and it’s a challenge I’m excited to experience.

“I want to thank the team for giving me this opportunity to contribute.”

READ MORE: ‘That’s the beast we’re dealing with’ – Russell mystified by Mercedes issues after recovery drive in Austin

Mercedes boss Toto Wolff added: “We look forward to seeing Kimi continue his development on track in Mexico.”

FIA regulations state all F1 drivers must sit out one FP1 each season for a rookie who has no more than two Grand Prix starts. Last week the FIA announced that this requirement will increase from once a season, to two times per season from 2025.

DISCOVER MORE...

IT’S RACE WEEK: 5 storylines we’re excited about ahead of the 2025 Spanish Grand Prix

F1 FANTASY: Strategist Selection – What’s the best line-up for the 2025 Spanish Grand Prix?

GREATEST RACES #23: An F1 title decided by just half a point – 1984 Portuguese Grand Prix

EXCLUSIVE: Newey on improving Aston Martin’s ‘weak’ tools, being a ‘maverick’ and focusing on 2026

Driving test nerves, forming a Ferrari band and Harry Potter’s magic – Getting to know the real Charles Leclerc