Just in:Mercedes F1 team confirms that Kimi Antonelli is not P…read more
Mercedes has officially confirmed that championship leader Kimi Antonelli will not take part in the opening free practice session (FP1) at the Hungarian Grand Prix, with reserve driver Frederik Vesti stepping into the cockpit as part of Formula 1’s mandatory rookie driver programme. The decision is procedural rather than performance-related, with Antonelli set to return to the car for the remainder of the race weekend.
The announcement quickly sparked speculation among fans after news broke that the young Italian would not be on track for the opening session. However, Mercedes clarified that the change is planned and forms part of the FIA’s regulations requiring every team to give rookie or reserve drivers opportunities during selected practice sessions throughout the season.
Frederik Vesti, who has continued working closely with the Silver Arrows as reserve and development driver, will use the one-hour session to collect valuable data while also helping the team evaluate setup options ahead of qualifying. The Danish driver has previously completed several FP1 outings for Mercedes and is regarded as one of the team’s most experienced reserve drivers.
Antonelli’s temporary absence comes despite an outstanding campaign that has established him as the driver to beat in the 2026 Formula 1 season. The 19-year-old heads into the Hungarian Grand Prix leading the drivers’ championship after another impressive victory at the Belgian Grand Prix, extending his advantage over his closest rivals.
Mercedes has stressed there are no fitness concerns or technical issues affecting Antonelli. Instead, the team believes the familiar nature of the Hungaroring makes it an ideal venue to complete one of its required rookie practice sessions without significantly disrupting the race weekend.
Once FP1 concludes, Antonelli will immediately return to the W17 for the second practice session before continuing through qualifying and Sunday’s Grand Prix. Mercedes expects the Italian to resume his fight for another victory as the team looks to strengthen its position in both the Drivers’ and Constructors’ Championships.
With Ferrari showing encouraging pace during Friday practice and Red Bull eager to bounce back, Antonelli’s return in FP2 will be closely watched as the championship battle intensifies. Although he will miss the opening hour of track action, Mercedes remains confident that the young star will quickly get up to speed and challenge for pole position once he is back behind the wheel.
