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.

Kimi Antonelli admits that there is a realization that he's replacing Lewis Hamilton at Mercedes, and it's not only a privilege but a responsibility as well.

Andrea Kimi Antonelli has already completed thousands of miles of testing in an F1 car, but couldn't legally drive on the roads until now. | ITV National News

Andrea Kimi Antonelli, who replaces Lewis Hamilton at Mercedes, has opened up on his debut season in Formula 1, revealing his realistic mindset for the start of