Lewis Hamilton’s signing with Ferrari was one of the most surprising developments of the 2024 season. The seven-time world champion, who rose to prominence in the silver-black racing suit, will replace it with the traditional red-yellow gear. While the Briton will fulfill his ‘childhood’ ambition of racing for Scuderia, Mercedes has plenty of questions.
The team, which has spent most of the last two years resolving faults with its F1 car, now faces one more task to overcome. As Hamilton departs for Ferrari, he leaves behind a big gap that will be difficult to replace. However, the Silver Arrows chief, Toto Wolff, remains calm amid all the chaos. Moreover, Wolff gave an update about Mercedes’ second seat for the 2025 season.
Wolff’s Focus On The Italian Prodigy As He Observes The Driver’s Carousel
Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff recently discussed the future prospects of Frederik Vesti and Mick Schumacher. He acknowledged that Vesti has performed well, but there are currently no opportunities for him in Formula 1. Moreover, Wolff emphasized that Vesti would continue to excel as a professional racing driver, whether in endurance racing or another series and praised his professionalism.
Further, Wolff also spoke highly of Schumacher, highlighting both drivers’ valuable contributions to the team, particularly through their work in the simulator. He referred to them as unsung heroes who spend nights from Friday to Saturday assisting with simulations. The Austrian executive believed Schumacher deserved a seat in Formula 1 and appreciated having him as part of the Mercedes family.
When asked about driver decisions for the future, Wolff stated that he would make those decisions later in the year, focusing on what is best for Mercedes. He mentioned the importance of not being distracted by developments at Red Bull and instead concentrating on Mercedes’ own drivers, including Andrea Kimi Antonelli in F2 and the current F1 drivers.
Is Kimi Antonelli Prepared To Take On The Formula One Challenge?
Mercedes’ Technical Chief, James Allison, feels that replacing Hamilton would be a difficult challenge for the young racing prodigy. Allison is confident in Kimi’s abilities, and he reiterated that they will lead him places. However, the teenager would be under immense strain since replacing a seven-time world champion is never easy.
Furthermore, the Technical Director stated that many had similar thoughts about Hamilton when he initially got into an F1 car. However, he hushed all critics with his incredible racecraft and cemented his place in history. However, Kimi addressed the ‘pressure issue’ after winning the F2 title. During a media encounter, Antonelli acknowledged the need to learn how to manage pressure properly. Although he claimed to have adequately managed the pressure during the race, there is still a long journey ahead.
