As transfer rumors surrounding Max Verstappen continue to intensify, Mercedes debutant Andrea Kimi Antonelli feels little pressure. The German racing stable is seen as the likely final destination for Verstappen, who is rumored to be negotiating behind the scenes with team boss Toto Wolff. Antonelli, who was promoted to Mercedes from Formula 2 this season, speaks of mutual trust at the Silberpfeile.
Persistent rumors have been circulating in recent weeks about a possible move by Verstappen to Mercedes. With the new Formula 1 regulations coming into effect in 2026, it is expected that Mercedes – just like in 2014 – will once again have the most powerful engine on the grid. These prospects could be attractive to Verstappen, especially now that Red Bull is in troubled waters. The team is only fourth in the constructors’ championship, trailing leader McLaren by 255 points.
Antonelli, who made his debut in Formula 1 this year, remains calm amidst all the speculation. “There is clearly a lot going on,” he told the press in Silverstone. “I am sure the team is doing its best to offer the best for the future. They are not just looking at next year, but further ahead. My goal is to simply do my very best.” When asked if he is in talks with other teams, Antonelli responded firmly: “No, no, no. I got this opportunity from Mercedes. There are no conversations with others. I am very happy with where I am now, and I know very well what the team expects of me.”
Highlights and Lows
“I just have to do my best, minimize my mistakes, and deliver the best work possible,” he explained. “I know the team has confidence in me, so I’m not really worried.” Despite a fluctuating first season in the premier class, Antonelli remains positive. He achieved his first podium in Canada, but made negative headlines last weekend in Austria by pushing Max Verstappen off the track in the opening round.
“It’s been amazing, we’re already in race 12,” Antonelli reflected on his debut season. “It went by so quickly. I think I’ve experienced considerable highs and lows. I can be quite satisfied, although I’ve also made many mistakes. Perhaps my approach, especially at the beginning of the season, was not always the best. Formula 1 is so exciting these days – just look at the qualifications, the differences are so small. You have to be on top of it and pay attention to every detail. I think I understand it much better now and have the situation better under control. That’s definitely going to help me in the second half of the season.”
