MONZA:
Italian driver Kimi Antonelli will replace seven-time Formula One world champion Lewis Hamilton at Mercedes next season, as announced during the 18-year-old’s home grand prix at Monza on Saturday. Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff revealed that he made the decision to sign Antonelli shortly after Hamilton, 39, informed him last January of his intention to move to Ferrari in 2025.
“Instinctively, this is the line-up I always wanted,” said Wolff, referring to Antonelli joining George Russell. The Austrian expressed high expectations for the young driver but acknowledged that Antonelli would likely make mistakes as part of his development.
Antonelli has been competing in Formula Two this year but has been supported by Mercedes since 2019, including a programme of private testing with older Formula One cars. He will be the first rookie to race for Mercedes in 70 years, a challenging feat in itself, and even more daunting given that he will be stepping into the shoes of the sport’s most successful driver.
The announcement followed Antonelli’s crash in George Russell’s car during his free practice debut at Monza. Despite the setback, Antonelli remains enthusiastic about his future with Mercedes. “It’s impossible to replace Lewis Hamilton; he’s a giant in the sport and has accomplished so much,” said the Italian. “I’m just the next driver for Mercedes in ’25, and I’m excited about that.”
Wolff had also explored the possibility of bringing Red Bull’s triple world champion Max Verstappen to Mercedes, but Verstappen’s contract with Red Bull runs until the end of 2028, and discussions did not progress. “These two [Russell and Antonelli] are the future,” Wolff emphasised. “Our full focus is on George and Kimi for 2024 and 2025.”
Antonelli’s entry into Formula One marks a significant moment for Italy, as he becomes the first Italian driver since Antonio Giovinazzi in 2021 and the first to race for a top team since Giancarlo Fisichella’s temporary stint at Ferrari in 2009. Fisichella remains the last Italian to win a Formula One race, achieving victory with Renault in 2006.
Antonelli described his promotion to Formula One as a dream come true, one he has held since childhood. “I’m still learning a lot, but I feel ready for the opportunity,” he said in a statement confirming his seat. “I’m also excited to work alongside George. He came through the same junior programme as me, and I have huge respect for him. I look forward to learning from him and working together on track.”
George Russell, entering his fourth season with Mercedes, expressed optimism about working with Antonelli. Reflecting on his own time as a junior driver, Russell highlighted Hamilton’s mentorship and the lessons he gained from their partnership. “I hope to play a similar role for Kimi,” said Russell, who also acknowledged the valuable experience he had gained from his time alongside Hamilton.
Mercedes have secured three race wins this season, with Hamilton taking two of them. As the team prepares for the 2024 season, the new pairing of Russell and Antonelli is set to bring fresh dynamics and energy to the team as they continue to compete at the top level of Formula One.
