Tipster profile image
Victor Petkov
twitter iconlikedin iconlikedin icon
Head of Content authorBadge
Last Updated:

4 min read

Mercedes confirms Kimi Antonelli as Hamilton’s successor for 2025
google news logo Follow us
Add comment
The young talent made his F1 debut on Friday's first practice at Monza

Mercedes has officially announced that young Italian driver Andrea Kimi Antonelli will replace Lewis Hamilton in Formula 1 starting in the 2025 season. Antonelli, who has been widely tipped for the seat alongside George Russell, will step up to the pinnacle of motorsport after a season of learning and development in Formula 2.

Despite rumors of Mercedes considering other drivers, including Max Verstappen, the team has put its faith in the 20-year-old Antonelli. Although his season in Formula 2 had its challenges, the German manufacturer has been impressed by his growth and his performance in F1 testing.

Antonelli made his F1 debut on Friday when he took George Russell’s seat in first practice, but flew out into the barriers at the last corner and his session was just 10 minutes long.

Mercedes Team Principal Toto Wolff expressed confidence in the new line-up, stating, “Our 2025 driver line-up combines experience, talent, youth, and out-and-out raw speed. We are excited about what George and Kimi bring to the team both as individual drivers and as a partnership. This new line-up is perfect to open the next chapter in our story, and it reflects our belief in nurturing home-grown talent.”

Antonelli, who has been part of the Mercedes junior driver program since 2019, expressed his excitement about the promotion. “Reaching F1 is a dream I’ve had since I was a small boy,” said Antonelli. “I want to thank the team for their support and the faith they’ve shown in me. I’m still learning, but I feel ready for this opportunity and am focused on delivering the best results for the team.”

Antonelli’s rise to F1 has been marked by success throughout his junior career, including multiple karting and single-seater titles. His promotion to Mercedes’ top team is a testament to his potential and the strength of Mercedes’ junior program, as the team looks to shape its future with a blend of youthful talent and proven speed.