The much-anticipated debut of Kimi Antonelli with Mercedes ends in an anticlimax during the first free practice of the Italian Grand Prix. The 18-year-old Italian crashes hard off the track shortly after the start of FP1. The newly minted Williams driver, Franco Colapinto, also experiences a precarious moment on the new asphalt in Monza. Max Verstappen, for what it’s worth, drives to P1 in the first session, staying ahead of Charles Leclerc and Lando Norris.
It’s a well-known secret that Antonelli will replace Lewis Hamilton, who is moving to Ferrari, at Mercedes next year. Racing is not on the cards this season. Gaining experience in free practice is the goal, but in Monza, that hardly happens. The Italian makes a mistake in the Parabolica corner just about ten minutes in, resulting in a severe crash. The good news: he is unharmed. But the first official meters in the Mercedes vehicle end in disappointment in his home country.
Colapinto’s Impressive Debut at the Italian Grand Prix
Colapinto, another newcomer who is attracting attention, is making a better impression. A late excursion through the gravel is the only blemish on his performance. The Italian Grand Prix will be his first of nine races in which he will replace Logan Sargeant for the rest of the season on behalf of Williams. The 21-year-old Argentine, who has already participated in a free practice session in England, is starting his first race weekend at P17.
New Asphalt in Monza
He does this on the new asphalt in Monza. The surface provides more grip, although teams and drivers also expect a lot of tire wear due to the warm weather. Perhaps the asphalt, along with the renovated kerbstones, will aid Verstappen in his battle with, for example, Lando Norris.
Verstappen’s Performance in the First Practice Session
In the first practice session, the Dutchman logically pushes the limits of the RB20, also going straight a few times. On soft tires, he shows himself to be fast, finishing above Leclerc and Norris on the timesheet. The second free practice session is on Friday afternoon at 11 AM UST.
