By Joe Murphy
Mercedes have confirmed Italian teenager Andrea Kimi Antonelli will replace Lewis Hamilton from the start of the 2025 Formula 1 season, even though the youngsters first taste yesterday didn’t exactly go to plan.
Hamilton announced earlier this year that he would be joining Ferrari next year and Mercedes have chosen youth in Antonelli, who turned 18 last Sunday, to be George Russell’s team-mate on a one-year contract. It doesn’t show full confidence, but a one year deal makes sense here.
As stated previously, Antonelli made his Mercedes debut in practice at the Italian Grand Prix on Friday but crashed in the early stages of the session, taking some of the gloss off of what was meant to be a celebratory weekend for driver and team.
“It is an amazing feeling to be announced as a Mercedes works driver alongside George for 2025,” said Antonelli.
“Reaching F1 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.
“I will be focused on getting better and delivering the best possible results for the team.
“I’m also really excited to become George’s team-mate. He came through the team’s junior programme just like myself and is someone I have a huge amount of respect for.
“He is super-fast, a multiple Grand Prix winner, and has already helped me improve as a driver. I am looking forward to learning from him and working together to deliver on track.”
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