Antonelli replaces Hamilton in FP1 for his first F1 trial at Monza GP.
Mercedes F1 will allow Andrea Kimi Antonelli, its F2 protégé, to undertake his initial trials in a contemporary F1 car at the Italian Grand Prix.
Under regulations introduced in 2022, each team must nominate a rookie driver, who has participated in two or fewer Grands Prix, for one FP1 session twice a year, to facilitate their experience in an F1 car.
In 2022 and 2023, Mercedes deployed Nyck de Vries and Frederik Vesti in this role respectively; however, de Vries is no longer eligible and Vesti has transitioned to an Endurance program, although he remains a reserve driver alongside Mick Schumacher.
Antonelli is set to make his F1 debut at his home Grand Prix, where he will replace Lewis Hamilton in the W15.
A spokesperson for the Mercedes team declined to comment on the matter.
Antonelli is regarded as a potential successor to Hamilton, who is moving to Ferrari, and the Italian is poised to make a significant step forward this weekend at the Dutch Grand Prix.
FIA rules for obtaining a super licence stipulate that a driver must have the required points, hold a valid driving licence, and be at least 18 years old.
Italians cannot hold a driving licence before the age of 18, and Antonelli, currently 17, will turn 18 on the Sunday of the Dutch Grand Prix.
Earlier this year, the FIA received a request to amend the rules, allowing 17-year-olds to acquire super licences under exceptional circumstances, although this was ultimately not pursued for Antonelli.
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F2 Star Antonelli Steps In for Hamilton at Monza during FP1 F2 Star Antonelli Steps In for Hamilton at Monza during FP1
