The Mercedes team is on the right track in the 2024 season. While the start of the season was full of blockades and hurdles, they have finally discovered the mojo. However, the Silver Arrows are still in search of Hamilton’s replacement. The seven-time world champion signed a deal with Ferrari, leaving Mercedes after tremendous success.
Therefore, the Brackley-based outfit needs to find a permanent solution to this issue. Moreover, the team is not left with many options, with Carlos Sainz signing a deal with Williams. Hence, the fans eagerly anticipate the team’s next move. Meanwhile, the squad leader, Toto Wolff, shed light on the plans for the upcoming seasons.
Kimi Antonelli’s Mercedes Move Nearly Confirmed, While Wolff Still Eyeing Max Verstappen
Kimi Antonelli has lately gained recognition as one of Formula One’s most promising young prospects. Mercedes director Toto Wolff has lauded the Italian driver as a potential successor to Lewis Hamilton, citing his extraordinary skills. Mercedes has supported Antonelli throughout his early career, leading to his signing by the team. His outstanding performance in the F2 race in Hungary heightened enthusiasm among supporters, who were anxiously anticipating his future contributions to Mercedes. Toto Wolff, speaking to Autosport Wereld, outlined Mercedes’ criteria for selecting their next driver, emphasizing their aim to secure the best talent available. Currently, Wolff’s top choice is Kimi Antonelli. He acknowledges that while Antonelli has significant potential and talent, he lacks experience and would face challenges, particularly in dealing with the media and competing against George Russell, one of the top drivers on the grid.
Moreover, teh Austrian executive also mentioned that Max Verstappen is another potential candidate but considers this option unlikely at the moment. He noted that other drivers might prefer short-term contracts, which do not align with Mercedes’ needs. As a result, Wolff is prepared to take a calculated risk with Antonelli, similar to the approach taken with Oscar Piastri, who needed about a year and a half to reach a competitive level against his teammate, Lando Norris.
Further, he highlighted that the upcoming 2025 season, with the regulatory changes set for 2026, presents a good opportunity to integrate Antonelli into the team. Despite these insights, Wolff did not confirm Antonelli’s move to Mercedes for the next season and stated he would continue to monitor the market and the developments at Red Bull.
Is Kimi Prepared To Face The Formula One Challenge?
Andrea Kimi Antonelli talked candidly after his F2 performance, voicing concerns about his preparation. He said that he was still learning and making errors. Antonelli said that he has yet to comprehend several essential concepts but is committed to improving and avoiding repeating mistakes.
Reflecting on his success, he noted that his most recent achievements demonstrate his continuous improvement. However, he is cautious about thinking too far ahead, mainly because no official agreement has been reached for the coming year.