The driver lineup for the next season is confirmed, with several rookies set to make their Formula 1 debut. Among the new talents are Oliver Bearman, Jack Doohan, and Kimi Antonelli, who are generating significant excitement. Antonelli, the young Italian sensation, is seen as a future star for Mercedes, with many F1 analysts already likening his driving style to Lewis Hamilton.
Despite the anticipation, the challenge of stepping into the shoes of a seven-time world champion cannot be underestimated. Antonelli has openly discussed in various interviews his efforts to handle the pressure and high expectations. At the same time, Mercedes fully supports the young driver as he adjusts to the demands of F1. Recently, Toto Wolff has explained that the Kimi-George duo could beat Ferrar-bound Hamilton in the next season.
Mercedes Cheif Confident Of Beating Hamilton As Kimi-George Duo ‘Brings Momentum’
Toto Wolff recently shared his thoughts on how Kimi Antonelli could play a pivotal role in helping Mercedes challenge Lewis Hamilton and Ferrari in 2025. With Antonelli set to make his full-time debut for Mercedes next season and Hamilton moving to Ferrari, the dynamic between former teammates is poised to shift as they become rivals on the track.
Wolff emphasized that, despite his long-standing friendship with Hamilton, he has no intention of giving the British driver any advantage once the competition heats up. The Mercedes boss expressed confidence that Antonelli and George Russell could provide the edge Mercedes needs to take on Ferrari next season. According to Wolff, Antonelli’s youth and fresh energy will inject new momentum into the team, creating a positive atmosphere within the organization as the Italian prodigy steps into his role.
Antonelli’s rise through the junior ranks has impressed Mercedes’ leadership, showcasing his potential to make an immediate impact in Formula 1. As a Mercedes junior driver currently competing in F2, Antonelli has already made a mark alongside fellow rising star Oliver Bearman, who is set to join Haas. Wolff sees this young talent as an asset that could give Mercedes the boost it needs to reclaim dominance in the sport.
Lewis Hamilton’s Successor Is Ready To Take His Throne
Kimi Antonelli is dubbed the next Hamilton because of a rare mix of flamboyant racing style and calm appearance. A fun fact about Antonelli is that he remembers every qualifying time he has driven to a tenth of a second. Recently, ESPN tested his ability to remember the timing accurately. Surprisingly, he answered all the timing correctly, leaving the interview awestruck.
The young Italian prodigy has a long way to go, but his clarity of thought is impeccable. While the ability to retain every qualifying time is impressive, but the performance behind it is even more impressive. Therefore, the teenage sensation would go places during his F1 tenure.