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Mercedes’ decision to hire Kimi Antonelli has surprised many. The 18-year-old F1 driver has finally received the opportunity he’s been dreaming of and is determined to make significant strides in the near future. The Italian driver had been mentioned for months as a potential replacement for Lewis Hamilton, and he has now gotten the chance he’s always wanted. Many have commented on Mercedes' decision, questioning whether the German team made the right choice or if they are taking a risk with this move.
Mercedes' boss has spoken about Antonelli as Hamilton’s successor for months, but there was an air of caution and uncertainty regarding the young Italian in his words. Nonetheless, the team’s executives have made their final decision, choosing Antonelli to represent Mercedes.
Notable figures in the F1 scene, such as Eddie Jordan, have weighed in on these changes. During the Formula for Success podcast, Jordan remarked that this could represent a huge pressure for Antonelli. He commented on Antonelli's first appearance, which didn’t go as smoothly as hoped. While Jordan acknowledges that Kimi is a promising and excellent driver, he shares the sentiment of many that it might be too early to give him this opportunity.
“We always said that I thought the pressure of Mercedes would be too much for Kimi and his debut, and his first run,” Jordan said, as quoted by Crash.
“It turned out the way it was. He spun out, it caused a lot of damage to the car. I still believe there’s a place for Kimi but not in Mercedes - that’s the point I will make. I don’t care how quick he is.
He should be placed somewhere which will give Toto and the team to learn for the year and come up that way. That’s my view on it.”
Co-host also shared this opinion, drawing a parallel with Max Verstappen, who began his career at Toro Rosso in 2015 before joining Red Bull.
Jordan points out that Mercedes could have been more cautious in their approach with Antonelli, similar to how Max Verstappen started his career at Toro Rosso before moving to Red Bull.
He stresses that Antonelli should have been placed in a team like Williams first, where Toto Wolff could watch his development. Jordan emphasized that this approach aligns with a longstanding perspective about promoting young talent.
He recalled Bernie Ecclestone’s advice on earning a position in the sport, stating that one should “earn the right” before making demands or seeking opportunities. According to Jordan, Antonelli has yet to demonstrate that he has earned this right or instilled a sense of total confidence in his abilities. He expressed doubt about Antonelli’s readiness for this role, suggesting that it might be too soon for him to be given such a huge opportunity.
The Italian will have the opportunity to deny all the rumors, show that he really has the capacity for great things, and try to silence the critics. We will see if he will succeed in that.
Kimi Antonelli reacts
In a media interview, Antonelli highlighted how incredible it feels to be part of Mercedes alongside Russell. At just 18 years old, reaching such heights was likely the last thing he expected. The Italian driver expressed gratitude for the support he has received and mentioned that he is still learning. Antonelli believes he is ready for this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity and is determined to make the most of it.
“It is an amazing feeling to be announced as a Mercedes works driver alongside George Russell for 2025,” said Antonelli.
“Reaching F1 is a dream I’ve had since I was a small boy; I want to thank the team for the support they’ve given me in my career so far and the faith they’ve shown in me. I am still learning a lot, but I feel ready for the opportunity."-Kimi Antonelli said.
Antonelli expressed his commitment to improving and delivering the best possible results for the team. He also shared his excitement about becoming George Russell’s teammate. Antonelli stated that Russell, who progressed through Mercedes' junior program just like him, is someone he greatly respects. As a boy, he had the chance to watch him, fantasizing that one day he would perform with him on the big stage. That dream became a reality.
Antonelli described Russell as very fast and a multiple Grand Prix winner who has already contributed to his growth as a driver. He looks forward to learning from Russell and working together to achieve success on the track.
We will see what kind of tandem the young Italian and already experienced Briton, Russell, will make.
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