Mercedes Confirms Andrea Kimi Antonelli as Lewis Hamilton’s Replacement for 2025 Formula 1 Season
In a highly anticipated move, Mercedes has officially announced that young Italian driver Andrea Kimi Antonelli will partner with George Russell in the 2025 Formula 1 season, replacing the legendary Lewis Hamilton.
Antonelli, a Mercedes junior driver since 2019, has been touted as a rising star in the Formula 1 paddock, with many speculating he would secure the coveted seat alongside Russell. Despite some challenges in his current Formula 2 campaign, Mercedes believes Antonelli has demonstrated sufficient promise, combined with his impressive performances in Formula 1 machinery tests, to warrant his promotion to the top tier.
“Our 2025 driver line-up combines experience, talent, youth, and out-and-out raw speed. We are excited about what George and Kimi bring to the team both as individual drivers, but also as a partnership. Our new line-up is perfect to open the next chapter in our story. It is also a testament to the strength of our junior programme and our belief in home-grown talent.”
- Toto Wolff, Mercedes Team Principal
Antonelli, who has already gained valuable experience in Formula 1 machinery, including a recent outing in an official FP1 session at the Italian Grand Prix, is eager to make his mark in the top tier.
“It is an amazing feeling to be announced as a Mercedes works driver alongside George for 2025. Reaching Formula 1 is a dream I’ve had since I was a small boy; I want to thank the team for the support they’ve given me in my career so far and the faith they’ve shown in me. I am still learning a lot, but I feel ready for the opportunity.”
- Andrea Kimi Antonelli
The 18-year-old Italian has an impressive junior career, with multiple single-seater titles to his name, including the Italian F4 and ADAC F3 championships in 2022. He also claimed victories in the FIA Motorsport Games Formula 4 Cup and the Formula Regional Middle East Championship and Formula Regional European Championship (FRECA) in 2023.
In his current Formula 2 campaign with Prema Racing, Antonelli has faced some ups and downs, but secured his first F2 race win at the British Grand Prix support race and added another triumph in the Hungary feature race. He currently sits seventh in the standings.
Mercedes’ decision to promote Antonelli is a testament to the team’s commitment to nurturing young talent, and he is set to become a key player in the 2025 Formula 1 calendar. As the Formula 1 news community eagerly awaits the next season, all eyes will be on Antonelli as he prepares to take on the challenge of racing alongside one of the best in the business, George Russell.
Stay tuned for more Formula 1 news, Formula 1 standings, and Formula 1 today updates as the 2025 season approaches.
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