Andrea Kimi Antonelli, an Italian driver for Prema Racing, participated in the FIA Formula 2 Championship at Imola, Italy on May 17, 2024. George Russell believes that Antonelli should carve out his own path when it comes to whether Russell would mentor him as a potential teammate for the Mercedes Formula 1 team in 2025. Mercedes is currently exploring options to partner Russell next season after Lewis Hamilton’s announcement that he will be moving to Ferrari. Toto Wolff, the team’s boss, has publicly expressed his desire to acquire Max Verstappen, but Verstappen has stated his intention to stay with Red Bull. As a result, Antonelli has emerged as a likely candidate for the position, given his debut season in Formula 2 and extensive F1 testing schedule. If Antonelli is promoted, it would elevate Russell, who is in his sixth season in the sport, to the role of the established driver at Mercedes. While Russell is willing to assist Antonelli in adapting, he believes that talented drivers should find their own path and learn from their own mistakes. He is open to offering advice and support but emphasizes the importance of independence. Russell also highlights the significance of having a competitive teammate to push for championships and provide assistance during battles at the front. He welcomes the change that a new teammate will bring and expresses excitement for the future. It appears likely that Antonelli will be announced as a Mercedes driver, as Wolff has ruled out Carlos Sainz from being an option for the team. Wolff acknowledges Antonelli’s role in the team’s reinvention and respects Sainz’s need to make decisions for his own career.
Verstappen commented that Norris would require a 'large reflector' following their near miss at the beginning of the race in Spain. Max Verstappen jokingly stated that Lando Norris...
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