MERCEDES have dropped a major hint that teenage sensation Andrea Kimi Antonelli could be set to replace Lewis Hamilton.

Seven-time world champion Hamilton, 39, is leaving the Silver Arrows for Ferrari in 2025 as he seeks a record-breaking eighth title.

Lewis Hamilton will leave Mercedes for Ferrari in 2025
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Lewis Hamilton will leave Mercedes for Ferrari in 2025Credit: Getty

Andrea Kimi Antonelli is being linked as Hamilton's replacement at Mercedes

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Andrea Kimi Antonelli is being linked as Hamilton’s replacement at MercedesCredit: Getty
It leaves a vacancy alongside George Russell, with a host of names being linked to the seat.

McLaren’s Oscar Piastri, RB’s Daniel Ricciardo, ex-Haas driver Mick Schumacher, and Williams’ Alex Albon have all been mooted as possible options.

But Italian Antonelli, 17, is now set to be given the opportunity to prove himself as the best suitor when he gets behind the wheel of the Mercedes W12.

He will spend two days driving Mercedes’ 2021 constructors’ championship-winning car at the Austria’s Red Bull Ring on April 16 and 17.