Andrea Kimi Antonelli is poised to replace seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton at Mercedes next year. After countless test kilometers and two, albeit not flawless, free practice sessions, the young Italian will get the chance to prove himself in Formula 1 in 2025. Antonelli already sees similarities between himself and Hamilton and also vows to beat his future teammate George Russell.
Following the upcoming triple header, Formula 1 is gearing up for the traditional winter break. On the track, the tension is palpable; both the drivers’ and constructors’ titles are still undecided. However, there are plenty of developments off the circuit as well. Several rookies are preparing for their official debut in 2025, including 18-year-old Andrea Kimi Antonelli. He is the chosen one to replace Lewis Hamilton at Mercedes.
While waiting for his first race in Formula 1, Antonelli has been in close contact with Hamilton. The British star turns out to be a good mentor for his future replacement. “We talk a lot, he’s very nice,” Antonelli told the Italian La Gazzetta dello Sport. “His driving style is also similar to mine, he likes a car that has a lot of understeer.” In recent weeks, Antonelli has often been found in the Mercedes garage. Under the watchful eye of team boss Toto Wolff, he is already getting acquainted with his new team environment.
Antonelli versus Russell
“I learn a lot from conversations with the engineers,” the Italian talent explained. “Normally, I don’t talk much over the radio, so I need to get used to that. If I accidentally press the wrong button on the steering wheel, it will be a mess.” According to Antonelli, Mercedes didn’t have to think long before offering him a contract for the upcoming season. His speed in previous years’ cars immediately impressed the team.
“They saw right away that I was very fast,” Antonelli proudly shared. “At first, I had to get used to the pace, but after the test at Spa, I received the call that I would be getting a contract for 2025.” Not long after, he was allowed to step into George Russell’s car for a free practice session at Monza. However, this did not go without a hitch: after just nine minutes, Antonelli parked the W15 in the wall of the Parabolica turn. “I was a bit naughty, let’s put it that way,” Antonelli grinned. He redeemed himself in Mexico by driving a flawless session, and he will obviously get another chance in Abu Dhabi. After that, he prepares for his real debut and the showdown with his future teammate. “I have a good relationship with Russell, although I just want to beat him next year,” Antonelli concluded.
