A “Spider-Man” in a Mercedes hoodie sparks speculation during FP1 in Barcelona—a video later reveals it is Kimi Antonelli
Formula 1 and the Mercedes team have released a behind-the-scenes video confirming what many fans had already suspected during the first free practice session at the Barcelona Grand Prix: Kimi Antonelli mingled with the spectators during the session, wearing a Spider-Man mask and a Mercedes hoodie.
Since Antonelli had to sit out FP1 due to rookie rules, Mercedes reserve driver Frederik Vesti took the wheel for that session. During the session, TV cameras captured a person in the grandstand, which quickly sparked speculation on social media. Many fans were convinced it was Antonelli himself.
The speculation was later confirmed by official footage from Formula 1 and the Mercedes team itself. In the video, Antonelli can be seen jokingly explaining: “Hey guys, as you know, I’m not driving in FP1 today, but I’m going to walk around the track as Spider-Man.” He also said: “I’m going to check out a few cars.”
Reactions and Surprise on Social Media
After the broadcast, the Italian himself seemed surprised and asked: “Oh my God, was I on TV or not?”
The appearance sparked numerous reactions on social media. One fan wrote: “That was pretty cheeky. When it came on TV, I immediately thought that guy looked familiar!” Another comment read: “That’s fun. Keep that sense of humor!”
Other users compared the stunt to similar moments in the past, such as when George Russell showed up in the grandstand wearing a mask in Mexico. Comments on Antonelli’s Spider-Man appearance ranged from humorous remarks like “The mask was too small for his face!” to “He’s doing side quests now, even though he’s leading the championship.”
A lighthearted moment off the track
The unusual appearance in Barcelona thus remains above all a lighthearted moment off the track, which was quickly and positively picked up on by fans and shared on social media.
On the track, Antonelli is in a very strong position. The Mercedes driver leads the drivers’ standings with a clear lead of 66 points over Lewis Hamilton (90 points) and Russell (88 points).
