Toto Wolff reveals that Formula 2 driver Andrea Kimi Antonelli is currently the favorite to take over Lewis Hamilton’s Mercedes seat. The Austrian is willing to take a risk by placing the young Italian in Formula 1 early. However, Wolff hasn’t given up hope on a Verstappen transfer yet.
Early in the year, Lewis Hamilton made the first big news by announcing his move to Ferrari. The question quickly arose as to who would succeed the seven-time world champion at Mercedes. Toto Wolff now indicates that he is fully committed to Mercedes junior, Andrea Kimi Antonelli.
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Mercedes’ Criteria for Next Driver: “We Want the Best Available”
“The criteria for our next driver are simple,” explains Wolff to Autosport World. “We want the best driver available. At this moment, my first choice is Kimi Antonelli.” The Austrian emphasizes that Mercedes still does not want to “rush” their decision, partly because there are “risks” associated with choosing Antonelli. “These are not so much in his talent as a driver, but Antonelli would be exposed to the media and the skills of George Russell, one of the best drivers on the grid.”
Wolff Still Holds Out Hope for Verstappen
Although Antonelli, despite his lack of experience, is becoming an increasingly realistic option for Wolff, the Mercedes team boss has not yet given up his dream of bringing in Verstappen. “An alternative scenario is, of course, Verstappen,” says Wolff. “But that doesn’t seem realistic to me at this moment. Other drivers would sign a contract for one or two years, which is not enough for us. So, I am willing to take a risk with Antonelli because it is a calculated risk.”
Wolff Willing to Take a Risk with Antonelli
Wolff is willing to take the risk with Antonelli, due to the progress of Oscar Piastri at McLaren. “(Piastri) took a year and a half to compete for the win at the level of teammate Lando Norris. We want to try to do the same with Kimi. In 2025, with the changes in 2026, we are in a transition phase anyway. So, it’s a good season to fit him into our team.”
Antonelli Must Wait to Join Mercedes
However, Antonelli must wait a bit longer to don the Mercedes racing suit. “I keep an eye on the market,” Wolff admits. “I’m not sure how things will further develop at Red Bull.”
