Formula 1 “wunderkind” demolishes Mercedes

First top time, then accident: During the first Formula 1 training for the Monza Grand Prix, the focus was on “child prodigy” Andrea Kimi Antonelli.

Monza – It was supposed to be a big day for Mercedes and their great young hope Andrea Kimi Antonelli. At the first practice session for the Monza Grand Prix, the Italian, who had just turned 18, was allowed to drive a current Formula 1 racing car for the first time. But at his home race, after 15 minutes and a heavy crash, it was all over again.

Formula 1 “wunderkind” Antonelli wrecked Mercedes in Monza

After Antonelli started at full speed and set the fastest time on his first lap, he finally lost control of the Mercedes after five laps in the notorious Parabolica corner. He veered sideways off the track, slid over the gravel bed and crashed into the tire stack with considerable force. The day before, the German safety car driver Bernd Mayländer had crashed in almost the same place.

A blessing in disguise: Antonelli was able to get out of the wrecked car on his own and was taken to the medical center at the track for a check-up in accordance with the instructions. He did not suffer any serious injuries. “Sorry,” the teenager radioed to the pits shortly after the accident. “Kimi, everything is fine,” replied team boss Toto Wolff.

Worry lines at Mercedes and Russel – Antonelli apologizes

However, the crash caused concern for the Mercedes team, as did George Russell, who actually owns the cockpit. “It was a pretty heavy impact in a fast corner,” said Mercedes communications manager Bradley Lord. At the same time, Lord also praised him: “He was at the limit, right from the first lap.” That's good to see, and it's part of the learning curve.”

Antonelli is considered the next big star on the Formula 1 scene and has a big supporter in the Mercedes ranks in the form of Toto Wolff. It is still unclear whether the 18-year-old will be given the second regular cockpit next to Russell next season, replacing Lewis Hamilton, who has moved to Ferrari. Hamilton himself has spoken out several times in favor of Antonelli as his successor.

Track rebuilt in Monza – Verstappen wins 1st practice

Antonelli's crash was not the only mishap in the first free practice session. Franco Colapinto also made a trip into the gravel. Some drivers are struggling under the new conditions in Monza. The high-speed circuit in northern Italy was rebuilt for around 21 million euros before this year's GP. New asphalt was laid and the track width was changed in some places. This should make the traditional circuit in Lombardy even faster and smoother.

In the first session, world champion Max Verstappen coped best with the new conditions. The three-time champion and world championship leader from the Netherlands relegated Ferrari driver Charles Leclerc to second place in the Red Bull. World championship pursuer Lando Norris came third. The race will take place on Sunday (3 p.m.). (LuHa/SID)