SHOCKING F1 driver replacement news 'leaked' by embarrassed announcer

A commentator appears to have 'leaked' the news that Kimi Antonelli will soon become a Formula 1 driver for Williams.

Antonelli - a junior driver at Williams' engine supplier Mercedes - was previously a name touted for the vacant 2025 Mercedes seat after Lewis Hamilton announced his departure to Ferrari.

READ MORE: Surprize F1 team in contention to sign Sainz after crunch discussions

But in recent weeks, rumours that the 17-year-old was being lined up to replace Logan Sargeant at Williams mid-season have circulated.

The FIA confirmed that they have received a request to grant Antonelli special dispensation for the super license he would need to race in F1 before his 18th birthday.

A slip of the tongue spills the secret?

Now, at the opening round of the Italian F4 Championship - which Antonelli won in 2022 - a commentator appeared to 'leak' the news that the youngster would be entering F1.

"Andrea [Kimi] Antonelli... the soon to be announced- uhh actually I won't finish that sentence," the commentator said during a safety car period.

Did a commentator just leak the Antonelli-Williams transfer? pic.twitter.com/s6IqbQiUMB

— The Format1on Lap (@theformat1onlap) May 8, 2024

Whether the commentator does have any inside information or not, the hesitation certainly sounded like he had said something he should not have.

At the Miami Grand Prix, Williams boss James Vowles ruled out the possibility of Antonelli racing for the team in Imola.

READ MORE: Cullen drops IndyCar future hint after star driver link-up

Related

Latest F1 News

American F1 star reveals 'talks' with team after wonderkid is linked with his seat

• May 15, 2024 02:00

F1 News

F1 team urged to replace under pressure driver with Schumacher in HUGE twist

• May 13, 2024 18:00