While a lesser driver might be crumbling under the pressure, Antonelli has argued that he isn’t “replacing” Hamilton so much as he is finding his footing with his first F1 t

Andrea Kimi Antonelli was more nervous than he had been for some time. A racing driver’s career can often hinge on sliding doors moments such as these. The 18-year-old wasn’t trying to secure a Formula One drive. He completed that mission months ago when he signed with Mercedes to replace Lewis Hamilton.

The Italian driver in the form of Kimi Antonelli has admitted that there is a realization that he is replacing Lewis Hamilton at Mercedes which is not only a privilege but a responsibility too.