When you have a potential future star like Max Verstappen, it’s difficult for a Formula 1 team like Mercedes not to get overly excited. Especially when their current on-track performance is far from their glory days and their next chance at fighting for titles is in 2026 when the car and engine rules reset. Mercedes missed out on signing Verstappen in 2015 because they didn’t have a seat available, but this time they have secured a spot for Kimi Antonelli in their works team. Antonelli has been Mercedes’ top choice for next season ever since Lewis Hamilton announced his move to Ferrari. Only if Verstappen were to unexpectedly leave Red Bull would Antonelli’s position be in jeopardy. Mercedes has admitted to making a different mistake with Antonelli by putting too much pressure on him at such a young age. They recognize that he has the potential to be a great driver in Formula 1, but they want to let him develop at his own pace and not rush his progression. Antonelli has already made a significant leap from Formula Regional to Formula 2 at just 17 years old. Despite facing challenges at Prema’s F2 team, he has also been conducting private testing with Mercedes, which will play a crucial role in determining his readiness for a 2025 seat. Mercedes’ technical director, James Allison, has praised Antonelli’s performance in the testing sessions, highlighting his natural talent and adaptability to the current generation of cars. While Antonelli’s rookie F2 season may not have yielded podium finishes, there are promising signs of his potential. Prema has faced difficulties with the new F2 car this year, but Antonelli has consistently shown improvement and resilience. He has already outperformed his teammate and is currently the lead driver for Prema in the standings. Although the F2 standings may not always accurately reflect F1 potential, Antonelli’s progress and skills make him a strong contender for a future Mercedes seat. While there is a risk of losing other potential Hamilton replacements if Mercedes waits too long, rushing into a decision with a driver like Esteban Ocon, whom they previously deemed not good enough, would not be wise. Antonelli has shown every indication that he is the right choice for Mercedes in 2025. It’s important not to overhype him, but it’s hard not to be excited about his potential and what he will achieve in the future.
Charles Leclerc finished the race in Austria with no points as his chances were compromised due to damage. Leclerc has admitted that Ferrari's recent upgrades in Formula 1...
Read more