Mercedes are diverting more resources into preparing Kimi Antonelli for F1
Although Kimi Antonelli has been linked to F1 for some time, the evidence for the 17-year-old’s arrival at Mercedes has never been stronger. The Silver Arrows have made Antonelli their priority ahead of the 2025 season. Excluding a shock change in the market, the young Italian will drive for Mercedes next season.
When Lewis Hamilton and Ferrari announced their contract agreement, the entire F1 world was shocked – including Mercedes.
The Brackley-based team was forced to recalibrate itself and adjust to losing its marquee driver.
Initially, several more established names were suggested as potential replacements for the 7-time World Champion. Fernando Alonso and Carlos Sainz were among them.
Toto Wolff even mentioned Max Verstappen as a realistic target in the early months of 2024.
Whilst this move was widely dismissed at the time the instability at Red Bull could give the Silver Arrows an opening.
Still, excluding a dramatic U-turn from the Dutchman, none of these well-known figures will sign with Mercedes.
Toto Wolff’s personnel are expected to welcome Kimi Antonelli next season, with the Mercedes team principal already describing the youngster as their priority.
Mercedes increasingly confident in the 17-year-old
At some stage this year, promoting the youngster was in doubt. Although Antonelli was securing decent results (and consistently outperforming F1-bound Oliver Bearman), they were not eye-catching enough to give Mercedes complete confidence he was ready for a promotion.
Because of this, Mercedes kept their cards close to their chest as the early rounds went by.
However, the situation is now very different. Kimi Antonelli has claimed a series of impressive victories in Formula 2, putting himself 7th in the standings.
In the context of his rookie status, this is a very encouraging Championship position.
The 17-year-old’s dominant victory in the wet conditions of Silverstone was a huge statement.
Wolff called the victory a “turning point”, which is no overstatement – considering the manner in which Antonelli dominated.
His results are especially impressive given that, unlike previous seasons, Prema is no longer the reference in F2.
Antonelli closer than ever to F1
Combined with the extensive data Mercedes have on Kimi Antonelli from his extensive F1 testing programme, the team is confident about his speed.
More tests are scheduled for the remaining months of the year.
However, unlike previous tests, these upcoming sessions will focus on specific areas ahead of 2025 – rather than verifying Antonelli’s raw speed.
Of course, things can never be taken for granted in F1. The playing field can change quickly, particularly when the field is as close as this season.
Luckily for Kimi Antonelli, his chances of joining Mercedes next year are higher than ever.
Excluding an unexpected twist in the story, his Formula 1 debut will be next season.
