Kimi Antonelli Set to Join Mercedes in 2025
The 18-year-old Italian driver, Kimi Antonelli, has been officially announced as the new driver for Mercedes starting in 2025. This significant move comes as the seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton transitions to Ferrari next season. Antonelli, who made his F1 debut recently in Monza during free practice, is currently competing in the Formula 2 championship with Prema. His promotion signifies a new era for Mercedes as they aim to blend experience with youthful talent.
A Dream Realized for Antonelli
Expressing his excitement, Antonelli stated, 'Getting to F1 is a dream I've had since I was a child.' The young driver thanked Mercedes for their support and expressed his readiness to embrace this incredible opportunity. He is eager to learn from his new teammate, George Russell, who has already established himself as a formidable force within the team. Antonelli's rise in the ranks reflects the strength of Mercedes' junior program and their commitment to nurturing local talent.
Mercedes' Vision for the Future
Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff shared his enthusiasm about the new driver lineup, emphasizing the combination of experience, talent, and speed that Antonelli and Russell bring to the team. 'We know this will be another big step forward,' Wolff remarked, highlighting Antonelli's impressive performance in F1 testing this year. With the departure of Hamilton, the team is looking forward to a promising future with Antonelli, who is poised to make a significant impact in the world of Formula 1.
